Maribel Loya Hernandez, a 56-year-old Hispanic woman, tragically lost her life on August 3, 2019, in El Paso, Texas. She was one of the victims of the horrific mass shooting at the Cielo Vista Walmart, which claimed the lives of 23 people and injured 22 others. Maribel was shopping for school supplies for her grandchildren when the attack occurred.
She is remembered fondly by her family and friends for her love of barbecues, plants, and her favorite phrase, "shaa-shhinggg!!!".
The perpetrator of the shooting, Patrick Wood Crusius, was arrested shortly after the incident and later sentenced to 90 consecutive life sentences without the possibility of parole. Crusius pleaded guilty to 90 counts, including 45 counts of violating the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act and 45 counts of using a firearm during and in relation to crimes of violence. The Department of Justice described the attack as a "racist rampage" and emphasized the commitment to combating hate crimes.
The case brought significant attention to issues of gun violence and hate crimes in the United States. The sentencing of Crusius brought a sense of justice to the victims' families, although the pain and devastation caused by the attack continue to be felt. The community and the nation continue to remember and honor the victims, including Maribel Loya Hernandez, whose life was cut short by this senseless act of violence.
