The older brother of former NFL star Aaron Hernandez has been arrested in Connecticut amidst allegations of planning shootings at Brown University and the University of Connecticut. Dennis “DJ” Hernandez, 37, was apprehended on July 18, 2023, following reports of concerning behavior and threats. This incident adds another tragic chapter to the Hernandez family saga, marked by the highly publicized murder conviction and subsequent suicide of Aaron Hernandez.
Dennis “DJ” Hernandez Jr. (Bristol Police Department)
A Troubled Past and Escalating Threats
DJ Hernandez’s arrest unfolded dramatically outside his Bristol home. Police reports detail a tense confrontation where Hernandez allegedly advanced towards officers, shouting “Shoot me!” before being subdued with a Taser. The arrest followed investigations indicating Hernandez was “gravely disabled and a danger to society.” This incident isn’t Hernandez’s first brush with the law. He has a history of legal trouble, including a recent arrest in March 2023 for throwing a brick and a note onto the ESPN campus. The note, riddled with spelling errors, criticized the media’s impact on his family.
Hernandez’s recent alleged threats targeted Brown University and the University of Connecticut, his alma mater. Authorities were alerted to the potential danger by two women close to Hernandez who expressed concerns about his deteriorating mental state and erratic behavior. One woman revealed Hernandez had sent threatening text messages to another woman residing in Florida, including messages suggesting planned violence if debts weren’t settled. According to the police report, one chilling text read: “We’re taking lives if (expletive) isn’t paid up. It’s been years in planning, just taking notes, names and locations. They talked their way into this, and it’s almost point game.” The recipient of these messages also claimed Hernandez had threatened her life in open court.
Mapping the Schools and a “Bullet for Everyone”
Further investigation uncovered disturbing details about Hernandez’s alleged actions. An ex-girlfriend reported lending Hernandez her car for a court appearance on July 7, which he allegedly used instead to visit both Brown University and the University of Connecticut. He reportedly entered multiple classrooms and buildings at UConn, raising serious concerns. During a conversation with his ex-girlfriend, Hernandez allegedly made chilling remarks, claiming he “has a bullet for everyone” and that no one, including her, was safe.
Dennis Hernandez booking photo (Cheshire Police Department via AP)
Police corroborated the ex-girlfriend’s account by confirming the borrowed car’s presence on the UConn campus on July 7. Further fueling concerns, authorities discovered alarming posts on Hernandez’s social media accounts. While many posts appeared to be rambling complaints about perceived injustices, one post concluded with a chilling threat: “Will I kill? Absolutely. I’ve warned my enemies, so pay up front.”
Arrest and Ongoing Investigation
When police arrived at Hernandez’s residence, they prioritized the safety of two young children inside, ensuring they were removed by their mother and guardian. A phone call between an officer and Hernandez escalated the situation, with Hernandez allegedly claiming he was “on foot, armed, and that if (police) approached him, he would kill (them) all.” Shortly after, Hernandez exited his house and was taken into custody. Even while hospitalized, Hernandez allegedly continued making threats, including threats against individuals who he believed profited from his brother Aaron’s story.
Legal Proceedings and the Shadow of Aaron Hernandez
Dennis Hernandez is currently held at the Hartford Correctional Center on a $250,000 bond. The investigation is ongoing, and the full extent of the alleged threats remains under scrutiny. This case adds another layer of tragedy to the Hernandez family history, forever linked to the infamous downfall of Aaron Hernandez. The former New England Patriots tight end was convicted of murder in 2015 and sentenced to life in prison, only to die by suicide in his cell two years later. Now, his older brother faces serious charges, prompting questions about mental health, the impact of media scrutiny, and the lingering shadow of a family tragedy. The legal proceedings against DJ Hernandez will undoubtedly draw significant public attention as the details of this complex case continue to unfold.
The Importance of Threat Assessment and Mental Health Resources
This case highlights the crucial need for effective threat assessment and access to mental health services. Early intervention and support are vital in preventing potential acts of violence and ensuring the safety of individuals and communities. While the legal process unfolds, the focus should also be on addressing the underlying issues that may have contributed to this disturbing situation.
