No Doubt: Jury Finds Killer Guilty in Slaying of Mom of 5 on Weekend Hike

The man accused of brutally killing Rachel Morin—a beloved 37-year-old mother of five—was found guilty after a jury needed less than an hour to reach a decision.

Victor Antonio Martinez-Hernandez, 24, was convicted Monday after a nine-day trial that laid bare the horrific details of Morin’s final moments. She had gone out for a walk on the Ma & Pa Heritage Trail in Bel Air, Maryland, on August 5, 2023, and never returned. Her boyfriend reported her missing that night, and her body was found the next day in a wooded area near the trail, not far from where her car was parked.

According to prosecutors, Morin had been raped, strangled, and severely beaten. Harford County State’s Attorney Alison Healey described the case as “horrific,” with Morin suffering between 10 and 15 blows to the head. She was found partially unclothed, with clear signs of assault.

DNA evidence proved to be crucial. Investigators collected samples from various parts of Morin’s body, and all pointed to one person: Martinez-Hernandez. His DNA was also linked to clothing provided by members of his own family. That genetic evidence was key to tying him to the crime.

But this wasn’t his first brush with violence. Martinez-Hernandez had previously been connected to an attack on a 9-year-old girl and her mother in Los Angeles. He is also suspected in a homicide in his native El Salvador.

Following the verdict, Healey told reporters that the case was not only deeply tragic but also “airtight” in terms of evidence. Martinez-Hernandez was found guilty on all charges: first-degree premeditated murder, first-degree rape, third-degree sexual offense, and kidnapping.

His sentencing will take place in 60 to 90 days. Prosecutors say they plan to push for consecutive sentences—ensuring he will never walk free again.

The defense team, while “disappointed” with the outcome, said they will now focus on the sentencing phase to ensure Martinez-Hernandez receives “a fair process.”

Rachel Morin’s death shocked the local community, leaving behind her grieving children, family, and friends. Her memory continues to be honored by those she loved and those who are fighting to see justice fully served.