Rest in Peace: Esequiel Hernandez, Jr., Collateral Damage in the War on Undocumented Immigrants

On May 20, 1997, 13 years ago, Esequiel Hernández, Jr., an 18 year old U.S. citizen, was herding goats 100 yards from his home on the U.S.-Mexican border in Redford, Texas. Marines were encamped outside the small town along the Rio Grande River. After watering his goats in the river, Hernández was walking home when four Marines, well-armed with modern with surveillance equipment, followed. Hernández carried an old caliber rifle to protect against dogs and rattlesnakes. Marines shot and killed Hernández.

Esequel Hernández Jr.’s tragic death resulted from increased military drug and border enforcement along the U.S./Mexico border. Thousands of migrants have died as a result of increased enforcement efforts over the last 15+ years.  For more information about Hernández’s death, as well as a documentary, click here.

KJ