Justice Sought in Tragic Murder of 13-Year-Old Oscar Omar Hernandez; Mario Edgardo Garcia-Aquino Charged
The community is reeling from the heartbreaking loss of 13-year-old Oscar Omar Hernandez, whose body was discovered near a roadside in Ventura County after he had been missing for five days. Authorities have charged 43-year-old Mario Edgardo Garcia-Aquino with the teen’s murder, in what officials are calling a calculated and deeply disturbing crime that may be part of a broader pattern of abuse.
Oscar was last seen leaving his home in Sun Valley, California, after reportedly being invited by Garcia-Aquino to help make soccer jerseys—a pretense that, according to prosecutors, was used to lure the teen away from his family and into a fatal trap. Investigators believe Garcia-Aquino killed Oscar shortly after he left home, though specific details of the crime have not yet been publicly released due to the ongoing investigation.
The news of Oscar’s disappearance quickly spread across Southern California, sparking an intensive search effort led by law enforcement, community members, and loved ones. For five agonizing days, hope clung to the possibility of his safe return. That hope was tragically shattered when Oscar’s body was discovered near a rural stretch of road in Ventura County—his young life senselessly taken.
Garcia-Aquino has since been arrested and charged with multiple felonies, including murder and crimes against a minor. In a chilling development, prosecutors revealed he is also facing separate charges connected to a different case involving another underage victim. This revelation has intensified concerns that Oscar may not be Garcia-Aquino’s only victim.
Authorities are now appealing to the public for any additional information and potential witnesses who may have had contact with Garcia-Aquino. Early allegations and past reports suggest a disturbing pattern of behavior that may extend beyond the cases currently filed. Law enforcement agencies across the region are working together to piece together Garcia-Aquino’s history and determine if other children may have been harmed.
“This is a horrific and senseless tragedy that no family should ever endure,” said a representative from the Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office. “We are committed to seeking justice for Oscar and ensuring that any and all victims connected to this case are given the voice and protection they deserve.”
Oscar’s family has been left devastated, grappling with the unimaginable pain of losing a child in such a violent and deceptive manner. Vigils have been held in Sun Valley, with neighbors, friends, and classmates gathering to remember Oscar’s bright spirit, kind heart, and love for soccer. Photos show a smiling young boy who loved being active and had dreams for the future—dreams now cruelly stolen.
The public’s help is vital as the investigation continues. Anyone with information related to Mario Edgardo Garcia-Aquino or potential victims is urged to contact local authorities. Protecting other children and ensuring justice for Oscar depends on community vigilance and cooperation.
As the case moves forward, Oscar’s name will not be forgotten. His life, though tragically short, has already spurred calls for greater protections for vulnerable youth and increased awareness around predatory behavior that too often hides in plain sight.
In loving memory of Oscar Omar Hernandez, 13, a bright young light extinguished far too soon—may justice be served, and may his story bring greater safety for others.