Esdras Hernandez‑Cruz, a 20‑year‑old Hispanic man from Broadway, North Carolina, was found dead in Harnett County after being reported missing. His mother last saw him on February 4, 2022, and he was reported missing on February 8, 2022. Initial searches turned up nothing, and his remains were discovered near a body of water on March 23, 2022.

The Chief Medical Examiner’s Office determined on April 5, 2022, that Hernandez‑Cruz died from multiple gunshot wounds. The Harnett County Sheriff’s Office and Sanford Police Department opened a homicide investigation; no arrests or suspects have been publicly identified and the investigation remains ongoing. Family and friends continue to seek justice.

If anyone has information about Esdras Hernandez‑Cruz or his movements between February 4 and March 23, 2022, please contact the investigating agencies.