Demand Justice for Oscar Hernandez and Accountability for Those Who Betray Our Children

As a mother of three and a member of the same Southern California soccer community as 13-year-old Oscar Omar Hernandez, whose life was tragically taken by his own soccer coach, Mario Edgardo Garcia-Aquino, this act of violence feels personal. Like Oscar, my 14-year-old also finds passion and solace in soccer. This tragedy is a chilling reminder of the trust we place in those meant to care for and guide our children.

While I understand that under the law, a person is presumed innocent until proven guilty, there is overwhelming hearsay that speaks to the habitual patterns of this defendant's questionable behavior with minor children. The 2024 assault charge involving a 16-year-old, which led to Garcia-Aquino's arrest, had already raised serious red flags. And now, the charge of murder. We, as a community, believe this man has manipulated the system long enough and has shown a repeated pattern of dangerous behavior. It is time for justice.

We demand that Mario Edgardo Garcia-Aquino face the harshest possible punishment for this crime. We urge District Attorney Nathan Hochman to pursue the death penalty upon conviction. It is crucial that this case sets a strong precedent, sending a clear message that crimes against children will not be tolerated and that those who harm them will face the strictest consequences.

Oscar's death is not just a loss to his family, but to all of us. It is a heartbreaking reality that, every year, over 800 children in the United States are victims of murder (Children's Defense Fund). Our children, our future, are dying at the hands of those who are meant to protect them. We cannot allow this violence to continue, and we must demand justice for Oscar and accountability for those who betray our trust.

As a community, we must come together to ensure our children are safe and protected in all areas of their lives, including in sports. This case must serve as a call for stronger measures to prevent such crimes and to hold those in positions of power accountable for their actions.

Sign this petition for justice for Oscar Hernandez, for every child who deserves to be safe, and for a future where those who harm children face the harshest consequences. Let us stand together and demand change.