Who was Luz Hernandez? NJ preschool teacher, 33, found dead in 'shallow grave' days after vanishing
JERSEY CITY, NEW JERSEY: A Jersey City kindergarten teacher and mother of three was found dead Tuesday, February 7, 2023, days after she was reported missing. Police discovered the body of 33-year-old Luz Hernandez in "what appeared to be a shallow grave" near Central Avenue and Third Street in Kearny while conducting a welfare check.
Hernandez was reported missing Monday, Feb 6, by her employer, BelovED Community Charter School, when she failed to show up for work Monday. She is believed to have been missing since Saturday, authorities said. Hudson County Prosecutor Esther Suarez said in a statement that the body was discovered about 4.53 pm Tuesday and she was pronounced dead at the scene.
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The District Attorney's Office considers the death of the young mother suspicious. The Hudson County Prosecutor's Office Homicide Unit is investigating the case with assistance from the Jersey City Police Department and the Kearny Police Department. No arrests have been made at this time.
Who was Luz Hernandez?
Hernandez was a loving mother of three who also worked as a kindergarten teacher at Beloved Community Charter School. She began working here as a teacher's assistant in 2017 and was loved by her colleagues and students. The school was closed Wednesday as a sign of respect. "She was always happy. She loved kids. She became a teacher because she loved being around kids," Christino Hernandez, the victim's brother, told CBS.
Prayers and condolences for Luz
Beloved founder Bret Schundler told NJ.com, "People loved her. She was a wonderful co-worker. She was a beloved member of the Beloved family. People are feeling devastated by this." Schundler also said counsellors are available for both teachers and students during these hard times.
Hernandez was a beloved member of the Jersey City community, so prayers and condolences for the departed soul are pouring. In a Facebook post, the Jersey City Mamas posted, "We want to send our sincerest condolences and love to the family of Luz Hernandez. She was a member of the Jersey City community, a mother, and a kindergarten teacher. We also want to send our condolences to the Beloved Charter School community. This is an immeasurable loss for all."
Another friend posted, "This seems so unreal to hear about another woman from our community who has tragically lost her life. My heart breaks for Luz Hernandez her children, family, friends, colleagues and students Rest in Heaven, Queen." "Praying for your children, family, staff and students! You will be missed Luz Hernandez I’m so sorry this happened to you. RIP", another friend also commented.