On August 23, 2025, Dacara Thompson, a 19-year-old individual from Lanham, Maryland, was declared missing by her family after her last text message to her father late on August 22.
Her disappearance led to a multi-county search and heightened community concern. Surveillance footage later revealed Dacara approaching and entering a black SUV in Hyattsville around 3 a.m. on August 23, believed to be driven by Hugo Hernandez-Mendez, a Bowie resident.
Her car was recovered with her purse inside but her phone and keys missing. On August 31, Maryland State Police found a body in a grassy area off Route 50, which was soon identified as Dacara Thompson. The grim discovery confirmed her family’s fears and triggered a homicide investigation.
Investigation and Arrest: Who Is Hugo Hernandez-Mendez?
Authorities quickly linked surveillance footage and other evidence to Hugo Hernandez-Mendez, age 35, who lived at the residence where police believe Dacara was murdered. Police executed a search warrant on September 4 at his Bowie home on Kembridge Drive, uncovering evidence that pointed to the murder taking place in his bedroom.
Hernandez-Mendez was arrested and charged with first- and second-degree murder. He is being held without bond and faces criminal proceedings in Prince George’s County. Law enforcement has not established whether Dacara and Hernandez-Mendez had prior knowledge of one another before August 23, resulting in important inquiries remaining unanswered for now.
Timeline of Key Events
| Date | Event |
| August 22, 2025 | Dacara, having last been seen in contact with her family, has left her home located in Lanham. |
| August 23, 2025 | Surveillance shows Dacara entering black SUV in Hyattsville |
| August 31, 2025 | Dacara Thompson’s body found in Anne Arundel County |
| September 4, 2025 | Search reveals evidence at Hugo Hernandez-Mendez’s home |
| September 5, 2025 | Hernandez-Mendez charged, held without bond |
Community and Legal Response
State officials and police departments have expressed grief for Dacara’s family, with Maryland Governor Moore calling the loss “horrible” and promising support for justice and healing. Prince George’s County Police praised the community’s involvement in the search and have encouraged anyone with information to continue helping detectives.
The investigation remains open, with the cause of death still undetermined and possible further charges pending review of evidence. Community members have rallied for increased safety measures, and police urge vigilance in personal interactions, especially via social media or late-night outings.
Highlights: What USA Readers Need to Know
- Dacara Thompson found dead after missing for a week; case confirmed as homicide.
- Evidence from surveillance suggests that Hugo Hernandez-Mendez has been charged and is currently in custody.
- No known prior relationship confirmed between Dacara and Hernandez-Mendez; motive still under investigation.
- Police and local officials emphasize ongoing community support and urge any tips to help complete the investigation.
Quick Reference Table: Dacara Thompson Case Facts
| Aspect | Details |
| Victim | Dacara Thompson, 19, Lanham, MD |
| Suspect | Hugo Hernandez-Mendez, 35, Bowie, MD |
| Where Found | Route 50, Anne Arundel County |
| Evidence | Surveillance, search at suspect’s home |
| Charges | First- and second-degree murder; held without bond |
| Ongoing Gaps | Motive, cause of death, relationship unknown |
| How to Help | Contact PGPD Homicide Unit: 301-516-2512 |
FAQs
Who is Dacara Thompson?
Dacara Thompson was a 19-year-old Maryland resident whose disappearance led to a widespread search until her body was found on August 31, 2025.
Who is Hugo Hernandez-Mendez?
Charged with the murder of Dacara Thompson, 35-year-old Bowie man Hugo Hernandez-Mendez was linked to her disappearance and death by police investigations.
Has the cause of death been determined?
As of now, the medical examiner has not issued a final ruling on the cause of death; police expect it will be classified as homicide.
Was Dacara Thompson found?
Yes, her body was recovered off Route 50 in Anne Arundel County and confirmed by authorities.
Is Hugo Hernandez-Mendez being held?
Yes, he is currently held without bond and faces first- and second-degree murder charges; his immigration status is also under review.
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