Rest in Peace: Esequiel Hernandez, Jr.

On May 20, 1997, Esequiel Hernandez, Jr., an 18 year old U.S. citizen, (pictured left) was herding his family’s goats 100 yards from his home on the US-Mexican border in Redford, Texas. Unknown to the residents of Redford, Marines were encamped just outside the small village along the Rio Grande River. After watering his goats in the river, Esequiel started on his way home when the Marines began following him from a distance of 200 yards. The four camouflaged Marines were outfitted with state-of-the-art surveillance equipment and weapons. Esequiel carried an antique .22 caliber rifle to keep wild dogs and rattlesnakes away from his goats. The autopsy showed that Esequiel was facing away from the Marines when he was shot and killed.

Esequel Hernandez Jr.’s tragic death act resulted from drug and border enforcement.  For more information about Hernandez and his death, click here.

KJ