Public Information/Media Contacts
Media Statement - January 23, 2020
The San Diego State University Police Department (UPD) has received a copy of the Medical Examiner’s report regarding the Dylan Hernandez case and will be evaluating the findings as part of the ongoing investigation.
UPD is aware of recent coverage that has brought specifics of the ongoing investigation into the death of Dylan Hernandez into the public space. The preliminary, incomplete police report was provided to a representative of the Hernandez family in an effort to be as supportive and transparent with the family as possible during a difficult time for them as they are mourning the tragic loss of their loved one. Details of the incomplete report, released late last year, was not meant to be shared with the public as it compromises our ongoing investigation and can hinder witnesses from sharing information. Further, the release of incomplete excerpts from the then report can contribute to inaccurate reporting and assumptions that erode the integrity and approach of the investigation.
Government Code 6254 (f) allows for varying rights of access to police reports and case information depending on the status of the inquiring party. For example, persons involved in an incident or those representing them are entitled to greater rights of access to information than are members of the public. Members of the public and the media have a much more limited right of access. Again, as this is an ongoing investigation, details related to the case are limited.
Although UPD has already identified essential witnesses, the University Police Department’s (UPD) investigation is ongoing and we are continuing to gather information. It is critical that anyone with information about this incident cooperates with law enforcement to allow authorities to conduct a thorough and complete investigation.
UPD is encouraging members of the public to immediately come forward with any information related to this incident. Confidential reports can be made by emailing [email protected] or by calling (619) 594-1991.
We are unable to accommodate any interviews at this time.
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Media Statement - January 17, 2020
On Thursday morning, November 7, 2019, the San Diego State University Police Department (UPD) received a 9-1-1 phone call to respond to a student in need of medical attention at a residence located on campus at the 6100 block of Montezuma Road. University Police officers quickly arrived at the location of the incident and provided appropriate aid. Dylan Hernandez, an SDSU student, was transported to a San Diego area hospital where he was later pronounced deceased.
UPD immediately began investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident. UPD is the lead investigating agency for all criminal incidents that fall within the SDSU jurisdiction. For this particular case, UPD has consulted with the District Attorney's Office. The District Attorney's Office provides guidance to law enforcement agencies regarding investigative and prosecutorial matters. As this is an ongoing investigation, UPD detectives will continue to examine all aspects and details of the case. At this point in the investigation, the UPD Investigations Unit is awaiting findings from the Medical Examiner's Office. Further updates about the case will be provided as the investigation progresses.
Information is critical to this investigation and the University Police Department is encouraging members of the public to immediately come forward with any information related to this incident. Confidential reports can be made by emailing [email protected] or by calling (619) 594-1991.
San Diego State University Police
Public Information Officer
Raquel Herriott
(619) 594-1341
[email protected]
San Diego County District Attorney
Communications Director
Steve Walker
(619) 531-3890
[email protected]
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Media Statement - November 11, 2019
The San Diego State University Police Department (UPD) launches investigations for significant on-campus incidents. As part of the investigation process, officers are examining all aspects and details of the case involving the student who was hospitalized on Thursday, Nov. 7. We understand that incidents prompt questions. To protect the integrity of the investigation, details are limited.
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Media Statement - November 8, 2019
On the morning of Thursday, November 7, the San Diego State University Police Department (UPD) received a 911 phone call to respond to a student in need of medical attention at a residence hall located in the 6100 block of Montezuma Road.
University Police officers quickly arrived to the location of the incident and provided appropriate aid. The student was then transported to a San Diego area hospital.
UPD is investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident. Although the investigation is preliminary, UPD is taking this matter very seriously. As this is an ongoing investigation, UPD cannot provide additional details at this time.
For additional information and support, please visit the IFC Decision and Investigation website.
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The San Diego State University Police Department Public Information Officer (PIO) is responsible for providing the public and the media with information
Contact
For after hours and weekend inquiries, please contact the Community & Media Relations Specialist Raquel Herriott via email.
Community & Media Relations Specialist
[email protected]
619-594-1341