Missing Teen’s Body Discovered as Investigators Formulate Timeline

LOS ANGELES — Authorities are investigating the discovery of a body that may belong to Oscar Omar Hernandez, a 13-year-old boy reported missing on April 2, 2025. Hernandez, from the San Fernando Valley, vanished after visiting a friend in Lancaster, according to Los Angeles Police Department officials.

Los Angeles police announced that their Robbery-Homicide Division took charge of the case, leading to a coordinated search effort in Oxnard, located west of the city. The search effort yielded a body matching the description of Hernandez, though confirmation and the cause of death remain pending.

LAPD Captain Scot Williams stated, “During the search, a body matching the description of the missing teen was discovered.” Detectives continue to collect information to establish the cause of death and to identify any people who may have relevant information.

Officials have not provided details on what led them to Oxnard, with Deputy Chief Alan Hamilton noting, “All we can say is our investigation led us to this point here in the unincorporated area of Ventura County.” Family members gathered to pay tribute to Oscar at the site where his body was found, expressing their grief over the situation.

“He didn’t need to be treated like an animal. That was my son,” cried his mother, Gladys Bautista, while speaking to reporters. Others who knew Oscar, gathered outside his home in North Hollywood, described him as “the nicest person” and a talented dancer.

Police have not released updates on the investigation, but Hamilton was adamant about pursuing justice. “Anyone that thinks they’re going to get away with any kind of foul play… they’re going to learn that the Los Angeles Police Department will stop at nothing to bring people to justice,” he stated.