Who Was Rachel Morin? Maryland Mom Tragic Murder Case Explained, Timeline, Suspect, and Family Details

Rachel H. Morin (May 20, 1986 – August 6, 2023) was an American mother of five from Maryland whose tragic death gained national attention following a lengthy investigation and nationwide manhunt for her suspected killer. Rachel Morin was known for her vibrant personality, deep faith, and devotion to her children and family.

Early Life and Personal Background

Rachel Morin was born on May 20, 1986, in New Hampshire, to Patty Morin and the late Ronald "Zac" Morin. She had several siblings: Rebekah, Nathan (married to Magan), Michael (married to Shannon), John (married to Sam), and Josiah (married to Megan). She was a devoted mother to five children: Faye, Violet, Octavia, Deklan, and Lilah.

Rachel Morin enjoyed fashion, fitness, and travel, frequently participating in 5K runs and weightlifting. Her travels took her to places such as Miami, Las Vegas, Aruba, and throughout New England. Known for her joyful spirit and humor, Rachel Morin was often described as the life of the party. Her faith was a guiding force in her life.

Death and Investigation

On the evening of August 5, 2023, Rachel Morin went for a walk on the Ma & Pa Trail in Bel Air, Maryland. When she did not return home, she was reported missing later that night. The following day, her car was located at the trailhead, and her body was discovered about 70 feet off the trail. Authorities confirmed her death as a homicide.

Victor Antonio Martinez-Hernandez, a 23-year-old undocumented migrant from El Salvador, was later identified as the primary suspect. Investigators allege that he hid in a culvert before raping and murdering Rachel Morin. He had previously been linked by DNA to a home invasion and assault on a young girl in Los Angeles in March 2023. Martinez-Hernandez had entered the United States illegally multiple times in early 2023 and had been deported under Title 42 but re-entered undetected.

A nationwide manhunt ensued, involving over ten law enforcement agencies and more than 1,000 tips. Investigators traveled across seven states, distributed thousands of bilingual flyers, and worked with a criminal profiler. A video and composite sketch of the suspect were released, eventually leading to a break in the case.

On June 14, 2024, Martinez-Hernandez was arrested at a bar in Tulsa, Oklahoma, after a lead from genetic genealogy. He initially lied about his identity but was taken into custody and extradited to Maryland. He faces charges of first-degree murder and rape.

Public Reaction and Legacy

Rachel Morin death shocked the local community and gained national media attention. On August 27, 2023, a celebration of life was held at Greater Grace World Outreach in Baltimore. Rachel Morin family and community held an "Honor and Remembrance Walk" near the trail where she was found, and her mother, Patty Morin, spoke emotionally about the loss.

Authorities, including Harford County Executive Bob Cassilly, pledged to enhance security on the Ma & Pa Trail with high-tech cameras. The murder and investigation became a topic of political discussion, particularly regarding immigration and border security.

Trial

In April 2025, Rachel Morin boyfriend, Richard Tobin, and her 14-year-old daughter, Violet Custer, testified during the trial of Victor Martinez-Hernandez. The trial gained attention due to its emotional impact and the violent nature of the crime.

Remembrance

Rachel Morin is remembered as faith-filled, loving, and adventurous. Her family continues to honor her memory, and her case remains a significant moment of community grief and justice-seeking. A reward of $35,000 was offered for information that led to the arrest and conviction of her killer.

FAQs 

1. What was Rachel Morin full name and age at the time of her death?

- Rachel H. Morin was 37 years old when she died on August 6, 2023.

2. Who were Rachel Morin parents?

- Rachel Morin parents were Patty Morin and the late Ronald "Zac" Morin.

3. Did Rachel Morin have any siblings?

- Yes, Rachel Morin had five siblings: Rebekah, Nathan, Michael, John, and Josiah.

4. How many children did Rachel Morin have?

- Rachel Morin was a mother of five children: Faye, Violet, Octavia, Deklan, and Lilah.

5. Who was Rachel Morin boyfriend at the time of her death?

- Rachel Morin boyfriend was Richard Tobin, who cooperated with the investigation and later testified in court.

6. Where and when did Rachel Morin go missing?

- Rachel Morin went missing on the evening of August 5, 2023, after going for a walk on the Ma & Pa Trail in Bel Air, Maryland.

7. How was Rachel Morin killed?

- Rachel Morin was sexually assaulted and murdered. Her body was found off the Ma & Pa Trail, and her death was ruled a homicide.

8. Who is accused of killing Rachel Morin?

- Victor Antonio Martinez-Hernandez, a 23-year-old undocumented migrant from El Salvador, has been charged with her rape and murder.

9. How was the suspect in Rachel Morin case caught?

- Martinez-Hernandez was identified through DNA evidence and genetic genealogy, leading to his arrest in Tulsa, Oklahoma, in June 2024.

10. How is Rachel Morin being remembered by her family and community?

- Rachel Morin family hosted a celebration of life, participated in remembrance walks, and advocated for increased trail safety. She is remembered for her joyful spirit, strong faith, and deep love for her children.