Mario Edgardo Garcia-Aquino, a 43-year-old youth soccer coach in California, has been charged with the murder of his young player, Oscar "Omar" Hernandez. The incident occurred in Lancaster on March 28, when Hernandez was reported missing two days after he went to visit Garcia-Aquino. Subsequently, on April 2, his body was found near Leo Carillo State Beach, raising serious concerns about the events leading to his death.
Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman revealed in a press conference that Garcia-Aquino is an illegal immigrant from El Salvador. He is being charged with one count of murder that includes a special circumstance allegation, which could make him eligible for the death penalty. If convicted, he could also face life imprisonment without parole. In addition, on a related note, he has been charged with assaulting a 16-year-old boy in February 2024, demonstrating a troubling pattern of behavior.
Hernandez, a resident of the San Fernando Valley and a seventh grader at Sun Valley Magnet School, was described by friends as a promising soccer player. Garcia-Aquino, who was associated with the Hurricane Valley Boys Soccer Club, reportedly had no prior criminal record before these allegations surfaced. Authorities have urged anyone who may have been victimized by Garcia-Aquino to come forward, as the investigation continues into his actions.
5 Comments
Matzomaster
The call for anyone else affected to come forward is important. We must stop predators in their tracks.
Rotfront
It's heartbreaking to see a young life lost like this. Justice must be served for Oscar and his family.
Karamba
It’s crucial that we raise awareness about the safety of children in sports. This case is a wake-up call!
Rotfront
The charges against Garcia-Aquino are shocking. We need to ensure that individuals like him don't get access to children.
Karamba
Poor Omar deserved a better chance. We need to honor his memory by ensuring coaches are properly vetted.