The parents of 13-year-old Oscar Omar Hernandez have filed a lawsuit against the city and county of Los Angeles, claiming negligence in protecting their son from the alleged murderer, soccer coach Mario Garcia Aquino. The lawsuit arises from Oscar’s tragic death, which the family argues could have been prevented with proper oversight and background checks on Aquino, who faces charges for both the murder and the sexual assault of another teenager.
The lawsuit highlights concerns regarding the city and county’s failure to safeguard children participating in programs at government-operated facilities, specifically El Cariso Community Park and Whitsett Fields Park, where Aquino’s soccer club was active. According to reports from NBC Los Angeles, the Hernandez family asserts that even though Aquino did not have a criminal record at the time, the city and county should have been aware of prior allegations of child sexual misconduct against him from 2022.
The emotional impact of Oscar’s death has been profound. In a statement, the Hernandez family expressed their devastation, stating they are “heartbroken that someone entrusted with his care could commit such a horrific act.” Their lawsuit underscores a broader concern regarding the responsibilities of local authorities to ensure the safety of minors in community programs.
Garcia Aquino is currently facing severe legal repercussions, which include a potential life sentence without the possibility of parole for the murder charge, in addition to six years for the sexual assault charge. The case has garnered significant media attention, raising questions about the adequacy of child protection measures in recreational programs across the city.
The outcome of this lawsuit may set a precedent regarding the accountability of local governments in ensuring the safety of children under their supervision. As the legal proceedings unfold, the Hernandez family seeks justice not only for their son but also for the safeguarding of future generations participating in public programs.
