Authorities have announced that Victor Martinez-Hernandez, an illegal migrant from El Salvador, has been arrested in connection with the murder of Rachel Morin, a mother of five from Maryland. The arrest came after a press conference held by Harford County Sheriff Jeffery Gahler, where he revealed that Martinez-Hernandez was apprehended late Friday night and formally booked on Saturday morning.
Sheriff Gahler disclosed that Martinez-Hernandez, aged 23, illegally entered the United States in February 2023. He has been charged with first-degree murder and first-degree rape in relation to the case of Rachel Morin. Gahler also mentioned that Martinez-Hernandez is suspected of being involved in other violent crimes, both in the U.S. and in El Salvador.
According to Sheriff Gahler, Martinez-Hernandez was linked to a previous attack in Los Angeles in March 2023 through DNA evidence. The suspect was involved in a home invasion where a nine-year-old girl and her mother were brutally assaulted. This incident marked the first DNA match connecting Martinez-Hernandez to a crime in the U.S.
Sheriff Gahler used this case to highlight the challenges posed by illegal immigration, emphasizing the need for stronger border security measures. He criticized the current immigration policies and expressed concerns about the safety of American citizens due to criminals entering the country illegally.
Rachel Morin, 37, was reported missing in August after failing to return from a run on the Ma & Pa Trail in Bel Air, Maryland. Her body was discovered the following day, leading to an intensive investigation that eventually led to the arrest of Martinez-Hernandez.
The victim's mother, Patricia Morin, expressed gratitude towards law enforcement for their dedication in solving the case. She commended their efforts in seeking justice for her daughter and ensuring that the perpetrator is held accountable for his actions.
The arrest of Martinez-Hernandez has brought closure to the Morin family and highlighted the importance of addressing issues related to illegal immigration and cross-border crime.
