"Lacey's story is probably one of the most infamous cases out there. It was one of the earliest crime junkie episodes, literally episodes two and three, but the similarities in the cases are pretty shocking." — Ashley Flowers
"And on the other, you have an immigrant, a single mom working two jobs. Like you know which one of those the media is going to focus on, and it is fucking infuriating." — Ashley Flowers
"Evelyn is not the other anybody. She just served to have her story told without getting it wrapped up in someone else's." — Ashley Flowers
This episode details the perplexing case of Evelyn Hernandez, a pregnant woman who disappeared on May 1, 2002, along with her five-year-old son, Alex. The initial report was made by Herman Aguilara, the father of Evelyn's unborn child, six days after they were last seen. An investigation revealed Evelyn's routine on the day of her disappearance, including a doctor's appointment, a trip to the bank, and a purchase at Ross Dress for Less, culminating in her leaving her apartment around 6 p.m. to collect her mail. Despite phone calls with family members where she seemed to be in good spirits, all contact ceased after 9 p.m.
Further investigation into Evelyn's relationship with Herman revealed he was married, and Evelyn was unaware of this until later in her pregnancy. After discovering his infidelity, Evelyn ended their relationship, though he had been assisting with her rent. Herman initially claimed things were fine but later admitted to issues, attributing some to Evelyn's mood swings. His wife, though aware of Evelyn, believed their relationship had ended. Herman's alibi for the night of the disappearance places him at home with his wife after finishing his shift as a limousine driver.
The case took a grim turn in late July when a decomposed torso, identified as Evelyn's, was recovered from the San Francisco Bay. The baby she was carrying was not found and is presumed dead. Alex, her son, remains missing, and his disappearance is presumed to be a homicide, though no definitive proof exists. The episode draws significant parallels to the Lacey Peterson case, noting similarities in location, pregnancy status, and discovery of remains, yet highlights a profound difference in media attention, suggesting potential biases based on race and socioeconomic status.