By Jim Emerson
ANTIOCH — Francisco J. Hernandez, 23, of Antioch, remains in custody in lieu of $11.7
million bond, pending a court hearing on August 27. Hernandez allegedly committed a crime
spree including attempted murders, vehicle theft, and animal cruelty.
Antioch police arrested Hernandez on August 8 for receiving a stolen vehicle. The Contra
Costa County Sheriff’s Office arrested him again on August 12 for additional crimes.
Hernandez is being housed at the Martinez Detention Facility.
Hernandez certainly attracted attention to himself. An officer on patrol observed a vehicle
driven recklessly August 7 at approximately 11:52 p.m. The driver was making doughnut
circles at the intersection of Contra Loma Boulevard and Buchanan Road.
The driver sped away as the officer approached. The speeding vehicle crashed into a parked
vehicle a short distance away on Cortez Court. The crash disabled the vehicle, which
turned out to be stolen, and the officer detained Hernandez.
An identification check revealed that Hernandez was wanted for two outstanding warrants.
One warrant pertained to attempted murders, and the second warrant involved animal cruelty.
Hernandez allegedly committed multiple shootings and other crimes.
Hernandez is accused of shooting and killing a dog on July 15. He allegedly shot at people on
July 16, July 31, and August 1. Hernandez faces charges for attempted murders and assault
with a semiautomatic firearm. His other charges include discharge of a firearm, animal cruelty,
and vehicle theft.
