Full Notification

Modesto, CA - Modesto Police are investigating the brutal murder of a 37-year old mentally challenged male. The victim was found severely stabbed in the parking lot of the 3600 block of Sisk Road. Police investigators have been working throughout the night and are seeking the public’s help to identify the suspect(s).

On Saturday August 14, 2010, at about 7:23 PM, Modesto Police officers received a call of a subject down in the parking lot of Humphrey’s College, located at 3600 Sisk Road. When officers arrived, they found a Hispanic male adult, who was lying on the ground, suffering from a violent assaulted. Due to the extent of his injuries, the victim was immediately transported to a nearby hospital, where he later died.

It appears the location of the initial assault occurred at the rear of Babies-R-Us, located at 3500 Sisk Road. Somehow, the victim was able to flee to the parking lot of Humphrey’s College, where he collapsed.

Investigators have identified the victim as Ernie Hernandez Jr., a 37-year-old Modesto resident. Hernandez was mentally challenged and resided in a group home, which is located nearby from the scene of the crime. At this point, investigators do not have a motive for the assault and are seeking the public’s help for any information that may assist in this case.

On the day of the assault, Hernandez was wearing a black and white stripped polo shirt. He may have been at the mall earlier in the day. Police ask anyone who may have information regarding this incident to please call Detective Terry Seese @ (209) 652-3163 or Crime Stoppers @ (209) 521-4636. Callers to Crime Stoppers can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward. Tipsters can also text information to Crime Stoppers by sending a text message to 274637. Just type “TIP704” along with your message.

For information about this news release, contact police spokesman Sergeant Rick Armendariz at (209) 652-1820.

(Photo of Ernie Hernandez Jr)