A tragic road rage incident in San Antonio, Texas, has led to the arrest of a 24-year-old man, Nicholas Hernandez, who is now charged in the death of Julie Marie Butcher, a beloved mother of four. The heartbreaking event unfolded on November 8, leaving a family devastated and a community mourning.
Julie, just 31 years old, was driving along Interstate 35 when her life was cut short. Around 9:30 p.m., she was shot in the head while behind the wheel. Her car veered off the road and crashed into a ditch, where police later found her lifeless body. It was a senseless act of violence that no one could have imagined.
Witnesses played a key role in unraveling what happened that night. One person reported seeing a man pull up beside Julie’s car in a silver and blue Volkswagen Jetta, fire shots, and then speed away. Surveillance cameras also captured footage of the vehicle, helping investigators identify Hernandez as a suspect.
Just two days later, an anonymous tip came in, pointing directly to Hernandez. According to the tip, he had allegedly confessed to a friend about the shooting. Police reviewed text messages that backed up this claim, strengthening their case.
Interestingly, Hernandez had filed a robbery report with the San Antonio Police Department just hours after the shooting, claiming that someone had stolen his Beretta 9mm handgun, a duffle bag, and a bright orange Spalding basketball while he was playing basketball on November 6. However, when police searched his home, they found some of the supposedly stolen items, including the orange basketball and duffle bag. They also seized his Volkswagen Jetta, the car believed to be involved in the shooting.
As the investigation continued, more witnesses came forward. One woman told police that Hernandez had called her around the time of the incident and admitted to the crime. Phone records confirmed that call and placed him in the area when the shooting occurred. Another witness revealed that Hernandez had asked him to dispose of two 9mm shell casings the night of the shooting.
On November 27, Hernandez was arrested and charged with murder. He is now being held at the Bexar County Jail.
Julie’s family, reeling from the loss, released a heartfelt statement shortly after Hernandez’s arrest. “This Thanksgiving, our family is profoundly grateful for the progress toward justice for Julie Marie Butcher,” they said. “While the pain of her loss is still with us, we take comfort in the dedication of law enforcement and the overwhelming support from our community.”
Julie was more than just a victim—she was a hardworking, loving mother who managed a Papa John’s restaurant in New Braunfels with dedication and pride. Her family and friends have come together to honor her memory, setting up a GoFundMe campaign to cover her funeral expenses and support her husband and four children. As of Sunday, the fundraiser had collected over $9,000 of its $10,000 goal.
“She was loved by so many,” the campaign organizers wrote. “Your generosity is helping us honor her memory in a way that reflects the warmth and love she brought to the world.”
As her family navigates the pain of this unimaginable loss, they’re also seeking peace and healing, hoping that justice will be served for Julie.
Another story about random gun violence. This one was notably heinous, a thrill kill.