PALM SPRINGS, Calif. – A man was sentenced to 26 years to life in state prison for the first-degree murder of his ex-girlfriend, Ernestina Oropeza. The conviction came after Oropeza was stabbed to death by Miguel Hernandez Toscano following a jealous rage when she broke up with him.
During the trial, it was revealed that Oropeza and Toscano met while working at a casino in an unspecified area and began dating. However, their five-month-long relationship turned rocky when Toscano discovered Oropeza had been communicating with another man. The tension came to a head on March 1, 2022, when the couple argued about her interest in the other man during a drive to a friend’s house in Desert Hot Springs.
Following the argument, Oropeza told Toscano she no longer wanted to be with him, leading to the fatal attack. Oropeza’s daughters and their grandmother were present during the attack, witnessing the tragic event unfold. The children and their grandmother were able to flee for their own safety, and a neighbor called 911 after witnessing the grisly scene.
Oropeza was pronounced dead at the scene, and Toscano fled. However, he surrendered to the Palm Springs police the next morning, admitting to his actions and recognizing the mistake he made. Judge Jason Armand imposed the sentence of 26 years to life in state prison as required by law.
This tragic story sheds light on the devastating consequences of domestic violence and the importance of seeking help in abusive relationships. The victims’ daughters and family members are left to cope with the profound loss, while the perpetrator will spend many years behind bars. This case serves as a reminder of the necessity for resources and support for victims of domestic violence and the urgent need to address and prevent such senseless acts of violence.