On November 23, 2017, 10-year-old Delilah Hernandez was tragically killed in a drive-by shooting at her home in the 100 block of Harwood Drive, San Antonio, TX. Delilah, a young girl of Hispanic ethnicity, was sleeping in her grandmother's bed when the shooting occurred. The incident happened early in the morning, and despite efforts to save her, she succumbed to her injuries at University Hospital less than 40 minutes after being shot.
The investigation into Delilah's death revealed
that the shooting was part of a gang-related retaliation. Cody Gann, 18, and Jasmine Cary, 19, were identified as the suspects. Gann, who had a history of gang involvement, was believed to have sought revenge on Delilah's older brother for a series of drive-by shootings. Cary, who had briefly dated Gann, was also implicated in the crime.
On November 30, 2017, both Gann and Cary were arrested. Gann was charged with murder, while Cary was initially arrested on suspicion of evading arrest. However, Cary was later charged with murder as well. The evidence against them included surveillance video from the neighborhood, which showed their vehicle passing by the home at the time of the shooting. Additionally, casings found in Gann's vehicle matched those found at the scene.
In September 2019, Cody Gann was sentenced to 40 years in prison, and Jasmine Cary received a 25-year sentence for their roles in Delilah's death. During the sentencing, Delilah's family members, including her mother Jackie Vega and grandmother Gladys Ybarbo, gave emotional victim impact statements, expressing the profound loss and pain caused by the senseless act.
The tragic death of Delilah Hernandez brought attention to the devastating impact of gang violence and the importance of community efforts to prevent such senseless acts of violence. Her memory continues to be honored by her family and the community, who seek justice and peace in her name.
