Philadelphia, November 25, 2025
Two men, Yobranny Martinez-Fernandez and Hendrick Peña-Fernandez, have been sentenced to life without the possibility of parole for the murder of Philadelphia Police Sergeant Richard Mendez. The convictions followed a fatal shooting incident at the Philadelphia International Airport parking garage, where Mendez intervened in a robbery attempt. The case highlighted the dedication of law enforcement and the community’s support for justice.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Two men have been sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole for the 2023 murder of Philadelphia Police Sergeant Richard Mendez.
Conviction Details
On November 24, 2025, a jury found Yobranny Martinez-Fernandez, 20, guilty of first-degree murder, murder of a law enforcement officer, and related offenses. Hendrick Peña-Fernandez, 23, was convicted of second-degree murder, conspiracy to commit robbery, and robbery. Both men were immediately sentenced to life imprisonment without the possibility of parole. A third defendant, Alexander Batista-Polanco, had previously pleaded guilty to murder.
Incident Overview
The convictions stem from an incident on October 12, 2023, at the Philadelphia International Airport parking garage. Officers Mendez and Raul Ortiz confronted a group attempting to steal a Dodge Charger. During the confrontation, Martinez-Fernandez fatally shot Mendez, and Ortiz was injured. A third accomplice, Jesús Hernán Madera Durán, was unintentionally shot by Martinez-Fernandez and later died at a hospital.
Background Information
Sergeant Mendez, 50, was a 22-year veteran of the Philadelphia Police Department and a father of two. He was posthumously promoted to sergeant and honored with several awards following his death.
Family’s Statement
Following the sentencing, Mendez’s widow, Alex Carrero, and their daughter, Mia, expressed their grief and the impact of the loss. They emphasized Mendez’s dedication to his family and community.
Legal Proceedings
The case was prosecuted by the Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office, utilizing forensic evidence, surveillance footage, and witness testimonies to secure the convictions.
Community Response
The convictions have been met with support from the community, with many expressing relief that justice has been served for Sergeant Mendez and his family.
FAQ
Who were the individuals convicted in the murder of Sergeant Richard Mendez?
Yobranny Martinez-Fernandez, 20, was convicted of first-degree murder, murder of a law enforcement officer, and related offenses. Hendrick Peña-Fernandez, 23, was convicted of second-degree murder, conspiracy to commit robbery, and robbery. Both were sentenced to life imprisonment without the possibility of parole.
What was the incident that led to Sergeant Mendez’s death?
On October 12, 2023, Officers Mendez and Raul Ortiz confronted a group attempting to steal a Dodge Charger in the Philadelphia International Airport parking garage. During the confrontation, Martinez-Fernandez fatally shot Mendez, and Ortiz was injured. A third accomplice, Jesús Hernán Madera Durán, was unintentionally shot by Martinez-Fernandez and later died at a hospital.
What is known about Sergeant Mendez’s background?
Sergeant Mendez, 50, was a 22-year veteran of the Philadelphia Police Department and a father of two. He was posthumously promoted to sergeant and honored with several awards following his death.
How did Mendez’s family respond to the sentencing?
Following the sentencing, Mendez’s widow, Alex Carrero, and their daughter, Mia, expressed their grief and the impact of the loss. They emphasized Mendez’s dedication to his family and community.
What evidence was used in the prosecution of the case?
The case was prosecuted by the Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office, utilizing forensic evidence, surveillance footage, and witness testimonies to secure the convictions.
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Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Convicted Individuals | Yobranny Martinez-Fernandez, Hendrick Peña-Fernandez |
| Sentence | Life in prison without parole |
| Incident Date | October 12, 2023 |
| Location | Philadelphia International Airport parking garage |
| Victim | Sergeant Richard Mendez |
| Number of Defendants | Three |
| Prosecution Evidence | Forensic evidence, surveillance footage, witness testimonies |
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