Two-year-old Derek Alejandro Rodriguez-Hernandez and his 10-year-old brother, Jaden Hernandez, who had been reported missing from their foster home in Los Angeles’ Westlake neighborhood, have been found safe. The boys disappeared around 1:30 a.m. from an apartment on South Virgil Avenue, prompting an urgent Amber Alert that quickly spread across California.
Authorities identified their biological mother, 30-year-old Jackline Hernandez-Torres, as the suspect in their disappearance, and investigators believed she had taken them to the area of East 52nd Street in Los Angeles before leaving the state.
According to the Los Angeles Police Department, the brothers were located in Las Vegas, Nevada, and were confirmed to be in good health. Their biological mother was taken into custody there without incident. The LAPD credited swift inter-agency cooperation, including assistance from the California Highway Patrol, with helping track down the children and bringing the case to a safe conclusion.
During the search, authorities circulated information about a black 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser with Indiana license plates believed to be connected to the abduction. The widespread Amber Alert and extensive investigative work helped law enforcement zero in on the suspect’s location.
The children are now preparing to be reunited with their foster parents, bringing relief to both their caregivers and the wider community that had been deeply concerned for their safety. While the circumstances remain troubling, the outcome offers reassurance, as two young lives were protected and returned to safety.Last Seen: Aug 21, 2025
