Hernandez: Gunfire Outside South Side Residence Strikes Tucson Candidate’s Staffer’s Vehicle

Tucson congressional candidate Daniel Hernandez has reported a shooting incident outside his family’s home, which also serves as his campaign headquarters. A bullet struck a staffer’s car, prompting concerns for safety and security.

“We are all shaken, and everyone is safe,” Hernandez, running in the CD 7 primary election, stated. “Bullet casings were found at the scene. We are working closely with local authorities, who are actively investigating and are committed to ensuring those responsible are held accountable.”

The incident occurred around 4 or 5 p.m. and is currently under investigation by the Tucson Police Department. Hernandez described the distressing proximity of the shooting, noting that it took place just feet away from where his family members and staff were present.

“While the motive remains unknown, the fact that this happened so close to where my family sleeps is deeply unsettling,” he added, reflecting on his experience as a gun violence survivor. Hernandez has faced repeated death threats over the years, heightening his concern.

The candidate is vying for the seat left vacant by the late U.S. Rep. Raúl Grijalva, who passed away on March 13. Hernandez has political connections, with his sisters, Alma and Consuelo, currently serving in the Arizona House of Representatives. His political history includes two terms on the Sunnyside School District Governing Board and three terms in the Arizona House.

Hernandez first gained national attention at the age of 20 during a tragic event in 2011, where he assisted then-U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords following a shooting that left six dead and 13 injured. This experience inspired his memoir, “They Call Me Hero: A Memoir of My Life.”

As the primary election approaches, Hernandez faces competition, including Raúl Grijalva’s daughter, Adelita, who resigned from her position on the Pima County Board of Supervisors to run in the election. Hernandez previously ran for Congress in 2022 but lost the Democratic primary.

Updates on this evolving situation and the campaign are expected in the coming days.