The Prince George’s County community is reeling from the devastating loss of Da’Cara Thompson, a 19-year-old Maryland woman whose disappearance ended in tragedy just two weeks later. Her death has left family, friends, and neighbors heartbroken—and searching for justice for a life taken far too soon.
Da’Cara was last seen on August 22, when she told her family she was heading out briefly to get gas. She never returned home. Surveillance footage later revealed Da’Cara approaching a black SUV in the early morning hours of August 23 and entering the vehicle. That moment would become the last confirmed sighting of her alive.
After her family reported her missing, days turned into weeks filled with fear and unanswered questions. Nearly two weeks later, Maryland State Police made a grim discovery: Da’Cara’s body was found in a grassy area off Route 50 in Anne Arundel County. The news shattered her loved ones, confirming their worst fears.
Authorities later arrested Hugo Hernandez-Mendez, 35, of Bowie, charging him with first- and second-degree murder in connection with Da’Cara’s death. According to court documents, investigators believe Da’Cara was killed inside a Bowie residence after entering the SUV. Her body was allegedly disposed of near the highway in an attempt to conceal the crime.
