Guiselda Chelly Alicia Hernandez, a 35-year-old woman of Hispanic ethnicity, tragically lost her life on September 15, 2018, in Laredo, Texas. She was one of four women who fell victim to a serial killer, Juan David Ortiz, a U.S. Border Patrol agent. The other victims included Melissa Ramirez, Claudine Luera, and Humberto Janelle Ortiz. The case shook the community and led to a massive investigation.
Ortiz was charged with four counts of first-degree murder, one count of aggravated
assault, and one count of unlawful restraint. He was indicted by the 341st District Court Grand Jury on December 5, 2018, for the murders of the four women. During his trial, Ortiz confessed to the killings and was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.
The investigation into the murders revealed that Ortiz targeted women who were sex workers. The breakthrough in the case came when a woman, Erika Peña, managed to escape an attack by Ortiz and alerted the authorities. This led to Ortiz's arrest and the recovery of crucial evidence, including .40 caliber shell casings and distinct tire marks that connected the murders.
The community held candlelight vigils to honor the victims and support their families. The families of the victims, including Guiselda's, have expressed their grief and the pain of losing their loved ones. The case remains a tragic reminder of the dangers faced by vulnerable populations and the importance of community vigilance and support.
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