Trial Began for San Antonio Murder Case
Shandrick Buckley faces a murder charge following his recent capital murder conviction for a separate 2026 case.
Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Financial Crime
A murder trial has commenced for Shandrick Buckley, who is accused of killing 55-year-old Jose Gustavo Hernandez in 2017. The proceedings follow Buckley’s separate capital murder conviction earlier this month.
Why it matters
The trial addresses a long-standing homicide case that occurred at the Haven for Hope shelter. It seeks to resolve the legal accountability for the death of Hernandez, who passed away after being on life support for two weeks following an assault.
Shandrick Buckley faces a potential sentence of 5 to 99 years or life in prison if convicted of this murder charge. The trial continues after his conviction on September 15, 2026, for capital murder in a separate incident.
The players
Shandrick Buckley
He is a convicted murderer who is currently facing an additional trial for the 2017 death of Jose Gustavo Hernandez.
Jose Gustavo Hernandez
He was a 55-year-old victim who died following an assault near a shelter in San Antonio.
Bexar County jury
This body of citizens is responsible for determining the guilt or innocence of defendants within the San Antonio jurisdiction.
Haven for Hope
This is a prominent homeless shelter and resource center located in San Antonio.
The details
Surveillance footage captured the 2017 attack where an individual knocked down, kicked, and stomped on the head of Jose Gustavo Hernandez near the Haven for Hope shelter. Medical examiners later confirmed the victim died from injuries related to the assault while suffering from end-stage liver disease.
Timeline
August 9, 2017: Jose Gustavo Hernandez was attacked and Shandrick Buckley was arrested.
September 15, 2026: A Bexar County jury convicted Buckley of capital murder in a separate case.
September 29, 2026: Buckley appeared in court for his second murder trial.
Legal Context
This trial follows the precedent established by the defendant's recent capital murder conviction in Bexar County. The court is now navigating the legal complexities of prosecuting a second murder charge against an individual already sentenced to life without parole.
The proceedings provide closure for a violent crime that occurred at a well-known local resource center. Residents may follow the court's decision as it impacts the safety and legal status of individuals within the San Antonio area.
The takeaway
This case highlights the complexities of prosecuting cold cases that involve multiple criminal charges. Families and the public may see how past evidence and recent convictions influence current judicial outcomes.
Further reading
For additional context on regional judicial proceedings, visit San Antonio Financial Crime.
