Long Beach Teacher's Killer Dies in Jail

Enrique Hernandez, sentenced to 180 years for 2020 murder, found dead in custody

Apr. 15, 2026 at 9:21pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of shattered glass reflecting a harsh, direct camera flash, conceptually representing the violence and aftermath of a crime.The tragic aftermath of a violent crime leaves behind shattered evidence and unanswered questions.Los Angeles Today

Enrique Hernandez, a 29-year-old man convicted of murdering a beloved Long Beach special education teacher in 2020, was found dead in his jail cell just days after being sentenced to 179 years and 8 months in prison. The cause of Hernandez's death is still under investigation, but authorities have confirmed he died of a possible drug overdose while awaiting transfer to state prison.

Why it matters

The death of Hernandez raises questions about jail safety and inmate healthcare, especially for those with lengthy sentences. The murder of Jaime Perez, a well-liked teacher nearing retirement, also deeply impacted the Long Beach community.

The details

In 2020, Perez, 55, was shot and killed after following two masked men who had approached him as he entered his car. Hernandez was convicted of first-degree murder, carjacking, and being a felon with a firearm for Perez's death. Authorities say they have identified a second suspect involved in the murder, but that individual is also deceased.

  • Perez was murdered in 2020.
  • Hernandez was convicted in November 2025.
  • Hernandez was sentenced on April 1, 2026.
  • Hernandez died on April 4, 2026 while in custody at Men's Central Jail.

The players

Enrique Hernandez

A 29-year-old man convicted of murdering Jaime Perez in 2020 and sentenced to 179 years and 8 months in prison, who died in jail shortly after his sentencing.

Jaime Perez

A 55-year-old special education teacher in the Compton Unified School District who was murdered in 2020 in a carjacking attempt.

Long Beach Police Department

The law enforcement agency that investigated Perez's murder and arrested Hernandez.

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What’s next

Authorities are still investigating the cause of Hernandez's death in custody, and are working to identify the second suspect involved in Perez's murder.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the need for improved safety and healthcare measures in jails, as well as the lasting impact that violent crimes can have on tight-knit communities like Long Beach.