San Antonio, Texas – Nicholas Hernandez, a 24-year-old man, was taken into custody on November 27, facing charges relating to the tragic murder of 31-year-old Julie Marie Butcher. Almost three weeks prior to his arrest, Butcher was found dead in her vehicle, sparking an intensive investigation by authorities in San Antonio.
Butcher, a mother of four, was fatally shot in the head while driving on the I-35 access road near Rittiman Road around 9:20 p.m. on November 8. Witnesses reported seeing a small blue and silver sedan fire at her vehicle, with video surveillance capturing the suspect’s vehicle fleeing the scene following the shooting.
Following leads from an anonymous tipster, police identified Hernandez as a suspect after he allegedly confessed to the shooting to a close friend, mentioning that he drove a Volkswagen Jetta. Additionally, Hernandez had reported being a victim of a robbery just 15 hours after Butcher’s murder, during which his 9mm handgun was stolen.
Further incriminating evidence against Hernandez surfaced as witness testimonies and text messages pointed to his involvement in a road rage incident, leading to a search warrant being executed at his residence. The discovery of a black duffle bag and basketball in his bedroom added weight to the investigation.
With additional witnesses coming forward to provide statements, one witness highlighted inconsistencies in Hernandez’s alibi, indicating that he had not disclosed being robbed as claimed to the police. Another witness corroborated Hernandez’s involvement in a road rage incident where a vehicle was shot and rolled into a ditch.
On November 22, phone records placed Hernandez near the location of the shooting at the time of the incident, further solidifying the case against him. Subsequently, on November 27, Hernandez was arrested and formally charged with murder in connection to Butcher’s tragic death.
The Butcher family expressed gratitude for the progress made in the pursuit of justice for Julie Marie Butcher, emphasizing the importance of community support in their difficult journey. As they continue to seek peace and healing, the family appeals for continued prayers and assistance for Julie’s four young children, with a GoFundMe page set up for donations.