Crystal L. Hernandez, a 23-year-old woman from Youngstown, Ohio, tragically lost her life on January 24, 2019. Born on December 9, 1995, in Anchorage, Alaska, Crystal was known for her passion for makeup, creating YouTube videos, cooking, and most importantly, raising her son, Gabriel Jr. She was a beloved daughter, sister, and friend, leaving behind a grieving family.
The circumstances surrounding Crystal's death were part of a violent retaliation.
On the day of her murder, a series of shootings occurred, starting early in the morning. The violence was linked to a feud involving her boyfriend, Gabriel Smith, and a group of men led by Larenz Rhodes. The group sought revenge for earlier shootings that had injured Rhodes and another man.
Crystal was fatally shot in her McBride Street apartment, where she was found with her 2-year-old son, Gabriel Jr., sleeping on her chest. The apartment was riddled with bullet holes, and police found 53 shell casings from four different weapons outside. Among the weapons used was an AK-47, which fired the round that killed Crystal.
Larenz Rhodes, along with six other men, was charged in connection with Crystal's death. Rhodes was convicted and sentenced to 30 years to life in prison for his role in the murder. The trial revealed that the group had intended to target Gabriel Smith but ended up killing Crystal instead. The tragic incident left a lasting impact on Crystal's family and the community, who continue to seek closure and justice for her untimely death.
Crystal L. Hernandez's story is a somber reminder of the devastating consequences of violence and the importance of seeking justice for victims and their families.
