Authorities in Texas have arrested and charged a 24-year-old man with murder for allegedly gunning down a mother of four while she was driving — causing her car to flip over into a ditch — during a road rage confrontation in San Antonio, cops say.
Julie Marie Butcher, 31, was driving on Interstate 35 on the night of November 8 when she became involved in a violent argument with another driver, Nicholas Hernandez, and was allegedly murdered by him, according to local ABC affiliate KSAT. Hernandez’s arrest affidavit describes how he became involved in a confrontation with Butcher, for unknown reasons, and then shot her in the head before fleeing.
Butcher’s automobile was apparently discovered in a ditch, and she was pronounced deceased by authorities.
Authorities say Hernandez couldn’t remain silent about what transpired after the shooting and reportedly told numerous acquaintances, who ultimately informed detectives.
At least four witnesses came forward to say they had spoken with Hernandez about the homicide or similar issues. One allegedly informed authorities that Hernandez asked him to dispose of two 9 mm round casings. Another person furnished authorities with text texts in which Hernandez discussed the shooting.
Furthermore, 15 hours after Butcher’s death, Hernandez called the San Antonio Police Department to report a stolen Beretta 9 mm handgun he possessed, according to KSAT. The identical model was allegedly used to murder Butcher.
“This Thanksgiving, our family is profoundly grateful for the progress towards justice for Julie Marie Butcher,” her family said in a statement following Hernandez’s arrest, calling it “an important step forward in this difficult journey” after weeks of waiting for answers.
“While the pain of her loss is still with us, we take comfort in the dedication of law enforcement and the overwhelming support from our community,” a family member said. “Your prayers, kindness, and solidarity have been a source of strength for us.”
A GoFundMe page set up for Butcher’s father, David Delgado, describes her as a “beloved wife, mother, daughter, and friend.” She worked as the general manager of a Papa John’s in New Braunfels.
“She leaves behind her devoted husband, Michael Butcher, and their four precious children — Hailey, Jaxson, Michael, and Kenneth — who are now faced with an overwhelming loss,” according to the organization’s website.
Hernandez was being held at the Bexar County Jail on Sunday, awaiting his first court appearance. His bond information was unavailable.