Ruben Hernandez, a 43-year-old father of four, was tragically killed on March 23, 2020, in Cathedral City, California. Hernandez, who was the sole provider for his family, was working four jobs at the time of his death. The incident occurred at his home on Avenida La Vista, where he was gunned down in a case of mistaken identity. The assailants believed that someone who previously lived in the home was responsible for the murder of their friend in October 2019.
The investigation revealed that Jose Sanchez-Casas, 27, was one of the individuals involved in the fatal shooting. He was found guilty on October 18, 2023, of one felony count each of murder and shooting at a dwelling, as well as a misdemeanor count of possessing more than 28 1/2 grams of marijuana. Sanchez-Casas was sentenced to 15 years to life in prison. During the trial, impact statements from Hernandez's wife and sister highlighted the profound impact his death had on the family, who had to move out of their home due to the trauma.
Gabriel Hernandez, 24, of Indio, who is not related to the victim, is the alleged shooter and remains at large with a $1 million warrant out for his arrest. He is charged with one felony count of murder, two counts of attempted murder, and faces sentence-enhancing allegations of causing great bodily injury and using a firearm, as well as a special circumstance allegation of being an active gang member. Gabriel Hernandez allegedly fled to Mexico with his co-defendant, Joel Sanchez, 22, who was later arrested in Tijuana. Sanchez was sentenced to three years and four months in state prison after pleading guilty to being an accessory after the fact, carrying a loaded firearm, and possessing a shotgun, among other charges.
Another individual, Ethan Bravo, 22, of Cathedral City, is charged with one felony count of attempted murder and two counts of possessing controlled substances for sale. His trial is pending, with the next court appearance scheduled for January 17, 2024. The case underscores the tragic consequences of gang-related violence and mistaken identity, leaving a family devastated and seeking justice for the loss of their loved one.
