A heartbreaking incident in Scranton has left an 18-year-old woman dead and her boyfriend facing serious criminal charges after police say she was fatally injured while hanging from a moving vehicle during an argument. The tragedy unfolded late last month and has shocked the local community with its sudden and disturbing details.
According to the Scranton Police Department, officers were called on December 29 to the 1100 block of West Locust Street, also known as Roundwoods Place in West Scranton, after receiving a report of an unresponsive teenager. When police arrived, they found Rose Hernandez, 18, lying in a large pool of blood. Emergency responders rushed her to Geisinger Community Medical Center’s Trauma Unit, but despite life-saving efforts, Hernandez was pronounced dead at the hospital.
Investigators later determined that Hernandez had been involved in an argument with her boyfriend, Joseph Garcia, also 18, shortly before the crash. Police said the disagreement escalated when Garcia got into his vehicle and attempted to leave the area. Hernandez reportedly followed him outside as the situation intensified.
According to a police release, Garcia told investigators that Hernandez became caught hanging onto the door of his vehicle as he drove away. Garcia said that while attempting to stop the car, he struck another vehicle. Officers stated that after the collision, Garcia exited his car and discovered Hernandez on the ground, critically injured.
The exact sequence of events leading up to Hernandez’s fatal injuries remains under investigation. Authorities have not disclosed how fast the vehicle was traveling or how long Hernandez was hanging onto the car before the crash occurred. Police are continuing to review evidence, vehicle damage, and witness statements to fully understand what happened in the moments before her death.
As a result of the investigation, Joseph Garcia has been charged with aggravated assault offenses, police confirmed. Officials have not announced whether additional charges could be filed as the case progresses. The incident has drawn attention to the dangers of volatile situations involving vehicles and young drivers.
Rose Hernandez’s death has left family, friends, and community members mourning the loss of a young life cut tragically short. Authorities emphasized the importance of resolving conflicts safely and urged anyone experiencing emotional distress or heated disputes to step away and seek help. The investigation remains ongoing, and police say more information will be released as it becomes available.
