In 2007, while deployed with the 2-12 Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, Hernandez was awarded the Silver Star and Purple Heart after rescuing wounded Iraqi partner forces under heavy fire. During the mission, he was shot through the femur. Despite his injury, he fought through recovery, learned to walk again, and returned to duty.

In 2012, while serving in Afghanistan as a Platoon Sergeant with the 82nd Airborne Division, Hernandez received the Army Commendation Medal for Valor for pulling another soldier out of the line of fire. He was again wounded in combat, received another Purple Heart, and once more endured the painful process of relearning how to walk before eventually retiring due to his injuries.

In 2014, Hernandez survived a knife attack by his wife’s ex-husband, who was later sentenced in 2016 and served prison time until his release in May 2019. Lozano and Hernandez’s wife shared custody of two children. In November 2019, while picking up the children at Hernandez’s home, Lozano allegedly threatened to kill Hernandez and his family. Fearing for their lives—given the history and Lozano’s sudden, aggressive movements in a dark vehicle—Hernandez used deadly force. Lozano was shot twice, fled the scene, and died two days later in the hospital. Numerous knives and $6,500 in cash were later found inside Lozano’s vehicle.

Initially, prosecutors declined to file charges. However, Lozano’s family launched a public campaign that ultimately pressured the judicial system into pursuing prosecution. The case dragged on in the Texas courts for over three and a half years. During that time, Hernandez and his family faced relentless harassment, emotional distress, and travel restrictions that disrupted his personal life and mental health.

In April 2024, Hernandez was convicted of murder in Harris County, Texas, and sentenced to 18 years in prison. He is currently incarcerated in Huntsville, TX.

The trial raised serious concerns. It was expedited by the presiding judge, and the prosecution relied heavily on emotionally charged testimony from Lozano’s children—allegedly coached by his sister. Hernandez was represented by court-appointed attorney Larry Douglas, who lacked the experience and resources to properly defend a murder case. The defense failed to adequately explain Texas self-defense laws during trial, and Hernandez’s military service and character were scarcely mentioned before sentencing. Many believe there was clear reasonable doubt