Rene Hernandez, a 53-year-old Hispanic man from Baytown, Texas, tragically lost his life on February 28, 2021. He was found shot to death in front of his sister's house in Highlands, Texas, around 2:50 a.m. Rene had sent an "odd" early morning text message to his son just minutes before his death, asking, "Are you up, mijo?" This message was out of character for him, as they never communicated at that hour.
His black Dodge Charger was found dumped a mile away, and nothing was stolen from the scene.
The Harris County Sheriff's Office responded to the incident but has yet to make any arrests in connection with Rene's murder. Investigators were looking for a black Ford Ranger seen leaving the scene shortly after the shooting. The family has expressed their frustration and desire for justice, noting that there had been two other crimes on the street in the weeks leading up to Rene's death. They believe that Rene might have been an unintended victim.
Rene was a dedicated father of four children and four step-children, and he was set to start a new job the following day. He had served his country in the Army and was passionate about the Oakland Raiders. His family and friends remember him as a good dad and a hard worker. The Harris County Sheriff's Office continues to investigate the case, urging anyone with information to come forward.
The case remains open, and the family is determined to find the person or persons responsible for Rene's death. They have reached out to Crime Stoppers and the Harris County Sheriff's Office Homicide Unit for assistance in solving the case. The community is also rallying behind the family, hoping for justice and closure.
