MCGREGOR, Texas — The capital murder trial of Nicolas Jaimes-Hernandez, accused of killing five family members in a shocking 2022 shooting, is set to commence on Sept. 14, 2026. This date was confirmed in a recent court hearing where critical defense motions were denied.
Jaimes-Hernandez, 37, attended a session in the 19th State District Court, overseen by District Judge Thomas West. During this hearing, the judge dismissed two significant motions presented by the defense. One motion sought permission for an independent DNA analysis of the evidence, while the other aimed to prohibit a planned mock trial intended for case preparation.
Judge West found the request to stave off the mock trial to be unconstitutional. The decision sparked frustration among the defense team. Attorney Clay Dean Thomas expressed his surprise at the use of mock trials in criminal cases, stating that he had never encountered such a practice previously. “We thought that was improper,” Thomas said, indicating concerns about the possible implications for juror selection.
Jaimes-Hernandez faces capital murder charges for the deaths of five relatives: Monica Delgado, 38; Miguel Avila, 15; Natalie Avila, 14; Lorena “Lori” Aviles, 47; and Natalie Aviles, 20. All victims were shot on Sept. 28, 2022, in an incident that has left the small community grappling with tragedy.
Initially deemed incompetent to stand trial in 2024, Jaimes-Hernandez was sent to a state mental hospital for treatment. months later, doctors declared him fit to face the charges against him, paving the way for the upcoming proceedings.
Following the court hearing, family members of the victims expressed a cautious sense of hope. Renee Flores, a relative of the deceased, conveyed satisfaction with the progress of the legal process. “We’re ready for that next step,” she shared, reflecting the family’s desire for justice. Olivia Perez, another family member, added that the support from the state gives them strength during this difficult time.
The trial is anticipated to last two to three weeks, with prosecutors indicating their intention to pursue the death penalty. As this case approaches trial, both the legal community and the victims’ family await the unfolding of a high-profile trial that has captivated local attention.