In yet another devastating blow to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, a deputy with nearly a decade of service took his own life late Saturday night in Pico Rivera. The heartbreaking loss has rattled the department and raised renewed concerns about the mental health crisis among law enforcement officers.
Just before midnight, a distressing radio call went out — “902A,” the code for a possible suicide. Responding deputies arrived to find Deputy Hernandez with what appeared to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Paramedics attempted to revive him, but tragically, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Deputy Hernandez, a 9-year veteran of the department, was assigned to the North County Correctional Facility (NCCF) and more recently served as a patrol deputy at Century Station, which oversees areas including Florence/Firestone, Lynwood, Walnut Park, Willowbrook, and Athens Park.
Known among his peers as deeply committed, compassionate, and humble, Hernandez often spoke of his pride in serving the county and working alongside what he described as “some of the best cops in the Sheriff’s Department — great partners and most importantly my brothers and sisters.”
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Name | Deputy Hernandez |
| Years of Service | 9 Years |
| Assigned Stations | North County Correctional Facility, Century Station |
| Incident Date | Late Saturday, May 17, 2025 |
| Location | Pico Rivera, California |
| Cause of Death | Apparent suicide by self-inflicted gunshot wound |
| Pronounced Dead | At the scene |
| Personal Interests | Musician, youth mentor, parish volunteer |
| Support Services | Counseling and peer support provided by LASD |
He began his law enforcement journey at Men’s Central Jail before transferring to patrol duties. Outside of his demanding job, Hernandez was a devoted family man, parish volunteer, and a talented guitar player who enjoyed writing his own music. He dedicated time to working with youth in his church and was widely respected for his kindness and calm demeanor.
His guiding philosophy for new recruits reflected his core values: “Work hard, be humble, and remember we are called to serve our communities, our partners, and our family.”
The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department has not officially released additional details surrounding the incident. However, an internal memo confirmed the tragic loss and acknowledged the growing mental health struggles within the department.
In a year already marred by internal turmoil, leadership controversies, and increasing scrutiny, Deputy Hernandez’s death adds to the strain — a stark reminder of the unseen burdens carried by those in uniform.
Support services, including grief counseling and peer support teams, are being mobilized to assist deputies, staff, and Hernandez’s loved ones in processing this painful loss.