The Corpus Christi community is mourning the loss of Leyton Hernandez, a 28-year-old educator and coach who died Friday following a two-car crash outside the Coastal Bend region.
Hernandez was in his fifth year teaching and coaching at Veterans Memorial High School, where colleagues and students remember him as a passionate mentor dedicated to helping young athletes succeed both on and off the field. The district confirmed the news in a statement and announced that crisis counseling services will be available to support students and staff when schools reopen.
The son of Roland Hernandez, Hernandez grew up deeply connected to the local community. A graduate of King High School, he later attended Texas State University, earning his bachelor’s degree in 2020 while also participating in campus life through the Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity.
Friends say Hernandez carried his love for sports throughout his life. Known as a talented athlete in high school, he later dedicated his career to coaching and mentoring young players. One of his most cherished traditions was attending the state football championship with his father for nine consecutive years.
In a statement released by Corpus Christi Independent School District, the Hernandez family expressed gratitude for the support they have received from across the community.
As the district prepares to welcome students back to school, educators say Hernandez’s legacy will continue through the many lives he inspired in classrooms and on the field. Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.