A youth soccer coach in California is currently in custody, accused of the murder of a 13-year-old player, Oscar “Omar” Hernandez. The boy’s body was discovered last week in Ventura County, according to a statement from Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman. The coach, 43-year-old Mario Edgardo Garcia-Aquino, is now facing murder charges.
Garcia-Aquino, who coached a youth travel soccer team, had been entrusted with the care of Hernandez by the boy’s family. The young player had traveled by train to Lancaster on March 28 to stay at his coach’s residence. When the family lost contact with him two days later, they reported him missing. Authorities suspect that Garcia-Aquino killed Hernandez while engaging in or attempting to engage in inappropriate acts with the boy.
The tragic discovery of Hernandez’s body was made on the side of a road in Oxnard. “No parent should ever have to endure the unimaginable pain and sorrow of learning their child has been murdered,” DA Hochman said. “Oscar simply boarded a train and little did he or his family know that he would never return. Sexual predators who target victims for their own gratification will be held accountable and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
The cause of death has not been disclosed by Hochman, nor have any details about the events leading up to the murder. If found guilty, Garcia-Aquino could potentially face the death penalty or life imprisonment.
In addition to the murder charge, Garcia-Aquino was under investigation for a sexual assault that allegedly occurred on February 22, 2024, involving a 16-year-old boy. He was charged with assault with the intent to commit a sexual offense. However, officials stated that there was insufficient evidence to make an arrest prior to the alleged murder of Hernandez.
Detectives are concerned that Garcia-Aquino may have assaulted other victims and are urging anyone with information to come forward. “There is no excuse for these type of crimes,” said Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna. “We will continue to pursue justice and work tirelessly to ensure we bring closure to the victims and their families, while ensuring that such individuals face the full extent of the law.”
Hernandez’s family attended a press conference on Monday but did not issue a statement. During a vigil held last week, his mother remembered him as a joyful teenager who had a passion for soccer. “He didn’t need to be treated like an animal. That was my son,” Gladys Bautista said, according to local reports.