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Las Cruces Police Officer Jonah Hernandez died one year ago. Here's what's happened since.
One year has passed since the on-duty death of Las Cruces Police Department Officer Jonah Hernandez.
Hernandez was stabbed by Armando Silva while responding to a trespassing call about 5 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 11, 2024, on the 300 block of south Valley Drive.
A witness later identified as 29-year-old Issiah Astorga intervened, shooting Silva. Hernandez had been a member of the Las Cruces Police Department for just two years.
Hernandez, 35, left behind a wife and two sons, now ages 11 and 3. He was laid to rest Feb. 21, 2024, at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Cemetery in his hometown of El Paso, Texas.
More: Community gathers to honor fallen Las Cruces Police Department officer Jonah Hernandez
"Not one day has passed that Jonah is not in our memories, in our hearts and actions as we continue to heal from that painful loss," said LCPD Chief Jeremy Story in a news release. "We, as a department, are strengthened by Jonah's family who has every right to be bitter and dejected, but instead they continue to display kindness and provide inspiration as we move forward together."
Story and LCPD have implemented several initiatives in the wake of Hernandez's death. LCPD established 'Operation Not in Vain,' between August and November 2024, which targeted violent and property crimes, persons with outstanding warrants, repeat offenders, traffic enforcement and quality-of-life crimes.
Story has also been vocal about reform of state laws that address criminal competency and bail reform. The Las Cruces Police Department is honoring the life and legacy of Hernandez in several events. On Friday, Jan. 31, former Las Cruces Police Department officer and now country music artist Frank Ray hosted a songwriter’s round for Hernandez’s family and LCPD officers at the New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum. Ray was accompanied by singer-songwriters Trannie Anderson, Seth Mosley and Jordan Walker who performed for about 250 family and first responders. On Feb. 11, 2025, LCPD officers and some City staff will gather for a private memorial to honor and celebrate the life of Jonah Hernandez. On Feb. 16, 2025 officers will participate in the second annual New Mexico Fallen Officer Memorial Run in downtown Las Cruces. The Memorial Run begins at 10 a.m., on Feb. 16, 2025 at Las Cruces City Hall.
This article originally appeared on Las Cruces Sun-News: Anniversary of death of Las Cruces Police Officer Jonah Hernandez
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