San Antonio Mother's Murder Conviction Brings Family Closure After Domestic Violence Tragedy

Justice After Four Days of Deliberation

The courtroom erupted in emotional relief as Albert Casanova was found guilty of murder after four days of deliberations in the death of Briann Hernandez, a 30-year-old San Antonio mother who was shot and killed in a hotel room in May 2023. The verdict brings closure to a family devastated by domestic violence, though it cannot undo the tragic loss that left behind a young son.

Police say the shooting happened around 11:11 p.m. on May 3, 2023, at an OYO Hotel in the 2400 block of Southwest Loop 410. At some point during their stay, investigators say Casanova shot Hernandez in the head before fleeing the scene in her vehicle. The discovery came when a hotel manager later entered the room that night and discovered Hernandez dead.

Physical evidence proved crucial in the conviction. During the investigation, authorities say Casanova's fingerprints were found on items inside the room, linking him to the crime. The case highlighted a disturbing pattern of abuse that Hernandez had documented in private journals, revealing the hidden dangers she faced.

Hidden Signs of Domestic Violence

The most heartbreaking revelation came from Hernandez's own writings, which painted a picture of escalating violence. "Briann left behind journals and I read every single page in her journals. It came out every time she hit her, she wrote on in the journal, every time he pulled a gun out on her, she wrote it down in her journal," Huizar said. These entries provided crucial insight into the abuse that family members were unaware of during her life.

Family members told KENS 5 the relationship between Hernandez and Casanova was new, and they were unaware she may have been in danger. The couple had been dating for only a few months, making it difficult for loved ones to recognize warning signs. The family said police told them the two had been dating for at least a couple of months.

Casanova's criminal background should have been a red flag. Records show he has a criminal history in Bexar County dating back to an assault charge in 2001. However, the newness of the relationship meant family members had little opportunity to learn about his past or intervene.

A Mother's Legacy Lives On

Hernandez leaves behind her most precious legacy: her young son Abraham, who is now in the care of family members. Huizar legally adopted Hernandez's son, Abraham, who is now 6-years-old. She said Abraham is always thinking about his mom. "He talks to her every night, gives her goodnight kisses every night." The title quote reflects the family's belief that Briann is watching over them, grateful for the justice achieved.

The family has transformed their grief into advocacy, using Briann's story to warn others about domestic violence. "If you're in a bad relationship, please leave," said Hernandez's aunt, Nilda Gutierrez. "My mains storyline is here, please if you're in a domestic violence situation, please leave." They emphasize that shame should never prevent someone from seeking help.

Preventing Future Tragedies

The conviction serves as both justice and a wake-up call for others in similar situations. "I wish anyone out there who is going through something similar, I just hope this is your wake up call," she said. "That this is your sign to leave to go while you still have time. Briann doesn't have that chance anymore." Family members stress that no one should face domestic violence alone.

The case underscores the importance of recognizing early warning signs and the tragic consequences when abuse escalates unchecked. While Casanova awaits sentencing, the family hopes their openness about Briann's experience will empower others to seek help before it's too late. Domestic violence resources remain available 24/7 for those who need immediate assistance or guidance in leaving dangerous relationships.