On August 21, 2024, prominent San Antonio attorney Jerry Hernandez, aged 61, was found dead alongside his wife, Sonia Hernandez, 52, in their Shavano Park residence. Authorities responded to reports of gunshots at the couple's $1.6 million mansion, discovering both individuals deceased upon arrival. The Bexar County Medical Examiner's Office later determined that Jerry's death was a homicide, while Sonia's was ruled a suicide.
Jerry Hernandez was a well-respected personal injury lawyer with a career spanning over three decades. A San Antonio native, he graduated from the University of Texas at Austin and earned his law degree from California Western School of Law in 1988. Throughout his career, he received several accolades, including being named a top personal injury lawyer by SA Scene Magazine in 2017. Beyond his professional life, Jerry was known for his passion for basketball, notably coaching an AAU girls' team to a championship, and his unwavering support for the San Antonio Spurs.
Sonia Hernandez owned a beauty boutique and was recognized in local business circles. The couple had purchased their expansive four-bedroom, five-bathroom home in 2020. They are survived by a daughter who graduated from law school in May 2024.
The incident has been classified as a murder-suicide, with Sonia identified as the perpetrator. Authorities have stated that they are not seeking any additional suspects in connection with the case. The tragic event has left the local community in shock, prompting discussions about mental health and the unseen struggles individuals may face.