Abilene Man Gets Life for a Murder He Committed at Age 17

Deadly Home Invasion in San Angelo Gets Both Defendants Life Sentences

A tragic home invasion in San Angelo has led to the conviction of two men, Francisco Morales and David Alexander Rodriguez, both of whom have pled guilty to the murder of Jacob Hernandez. The crime, which occurred on May 26, 2021, left Hernandez dead and his family and friends grappling with the senseless violence. Morales, just 17 years old at the time, was sentenced to life in prison for his role in the home invasion and murder, with eligibility for parole after 30 years.

The Crime: A Cold-Blooded Home Invasion

On that fateful night in May 2021, Morales and Rodriguez arrived at the Nueva Vista Apartments on North Lillie Street with the intent to rob the tenants. Armed with handguns, they kicked down the front door and began firing shots as they entered the apartment. Jacob Hernandez, who was staying at the apartment with his girlfriend, immediately sprang into action. Hearing the gunfire, Hernandez pushed his girlfriend to the floor, urging her to stay down and out of harm’s way. But the intruders were relentless.

The two men proceeded to break into the locked bedroom, where they shot and killed Hernandez in cold blood. The suspects quickly fled the scene, leaving behind a grieving family and a shaken community.

Investigators' Diligent Efforts Bring Justice

Detective Lynn Dye and Crime Scene Investigation Supervisor Robin Hooper of the San Angelo Police Department, alongside experts from the Tom Green County Sheriff's Office, conducted a thorough investigation into the case. Their efforts were instrumental in bringing the two men to justice.

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Guilty Pleas Lead to Life Sentences

Morales' trial began on December 13, 2024, but by December 17, he pled guilty to the lesser charge of murder before the prosecution had even completed its case. In exchange for his plea, Morales received a life sentence without the possibility of appeal. The plea agreement also applied to Rodriguez, who had pled guilty earlier in July 2024. Both men will be eligible for parole after serving 30 years of their life sentences.

In a statement from the District Attorney’s office, it was emphasized that the case brought justice and closure to the victims' families. The DA expressed gratitude for the jury’s time and commitment, acknowledging that without their involvement, Morales might not have taken responsibility for his actions.

A Message of Justice and Finality

The District Attorney's office stressed the importance of justice for the surviving victims and their families. The guilty pleas sent a strong message that violent crime would not be tolerated in San Angelo. "This was a senseless, selfish act of violence," the DA’s office stated in the press release, "where criminals believed their right to steal was more important than the life of a beloved son, brother, and friend."

With the conviction and life sentences, the families of the victims can begin to find some peace, knowing that the perpetrators will face the consequences of their actions. The DA’s office reaffirmed its commitment to working with victims of violent crimes and ensuring that justice is served for the community.