Who is Victor Martinez-Hernandez? Maryland mom Rachel Morin's alleged killer indicted by grand jury

A Harford County grand jury has formally charged Victor Martinez-Hernandez of El Salvador, with the murder of Rachel Morin, a 37-year-old mother of five. Here's everything you need to know.

By Sakina Kaukawala

Published on Jul 03, 2024 | 04:22 PM IST | 15.2K

Image Courtesy: Twitter/ Laura Ingle

Trigger Warning: This article contains references to murder, assault, and rape.

Victor Martinez-Hernandez, 23, of El Salvador, faces serious charges after a Harford County grand jury accused him of murdering Rachel Morin, a 37-year-old mother of five. He is currently being held without bail at the Harford County Detention Center, awaiting trial on a number of charges including murder, rape, and assault, as per The Baltimore Banner.

Legal proceedings and Rachel Morin's family reaction

The indictment is a significant step forward in Rachel Morin's pursuit of justice, as her tragic death while walking along the Ma & Pa Heritage Trail in Bel Air in August 2023 shocked the community. Randolph Rice, the Morin family's attorney, spoke about how important it was to hold Martinez-Hernandez responsible for what he called a heinous crime. Rice reaffirmed his commitment to assisting Morin's family throughout the legal process and making their voices heard.

Morin's boyfriend, Richard Tobin, reported her disappearance after she failed to return from a walk. Her body was discovered the next day, prompting a thorough investigation that used advanced forensic techniques, such as DNA and genetic genealogy, to connect Martinez-Hernandez to the crime scene.

Martinez-Hernandez's background and immigration status

Martinez-Hernandez's journey to the United States has been scrutinized, with reports indicating that he entered illegally near El Paso, Texas, in February 2023. Prior to his alleged involvement in Morin's murder, US Customs and Border Protection apprehended him several times. This aspect of his background has complicated the case, bringing attention to larger issues concerning immigration and public safety.

The case has received national attention, with former President Donald Trump and Maryland Governor Wes Moore among those who have reached out to offer condolences and support to Morin's family during this difficult time. The Maryland Office of Public Defenders has declined to comment on the case, citing ongoing legal proceedings.

Upcoming court proceedings on Victor Martinez-Hernandez

Victor Martinez-Hernandez's initial hearing is scheduled for July 22 at Harford County Circuit Court. Given the gravity of the charges and the case's impact on the local community, the media and the general public are expected to pay close attention to the proceedings.

Victor Martinez-Hernandez's indictment marks a significant step forward in the pursuit of justice for Rachel Morin, whose tragic death has had a long-lasting impact. As the legal process progresses, questions about Martinez-Hernandez's immigration history and the circumstances surrounding Morin's murder continue to arise, shedding light on the broader societal concerns at stake.

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