RALEIGH, N.C. — A man has been found guilty of murder in connection with the death of a Raleigh student in 2021. Erick Gael Hernandez-Mendez faced charges in the killing of Christina Matos, whose body was discovered in April of that year.
Matos, a student at Wake Technical Community College, was found inside her locked bedroom by Raleigh police after her mother and brother attempted to check on her. Despite having a key to enter the apartment, Matos’ mother was unable to access her locked bedroom door.
During the trial, Hernandez-Mendez claimed that he had agreed to pay Matos $15,000 in exchange for a sham marriage for immigration purposes. He alleged that he witnessed Matos being killed by her roommate, Kailey Lynch-Firicano, and acquiesced to concealing the death due to threats against his family.
After hours of deliberation, the jury returned a guilty verdict against Hernandez-Mendez. The victim’s family, present in court, addressed the convicted murderer, expressing their profound grief and anger over the loss of their loved one.
The dramatic trial unfolded with emotional testimonies and evidence presenting a harrowing picture of betrayal and tragedy. The courtroom atmosphere was tense as the details of the case painted a chilling portrait of the events leading to Matos’ untimely death.
The guilty verdict brought a sense of closure to the victim’s family but also served as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of senseless violence. As they continue to grapple with their loss, the family seeks justice and hopes that the legal system will deliver a just punishment for the heinous crime committed against their cherished loved one.