Reporters gathered in the White House briefing room on Wednesday, eager to hear from a “special guest” introduced by Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt. Many speculated about who it might be, with names like President Trump and Secretary of Education Linda McMahon mentioned. However, the guest turned out to be Patty Morin, a grieving mother whose daughter, Rachel Morin, was tragically murdered by an illegal immigrant, Victor Antonio Martinez-Hernandez.
Rachel, just 23 years old, was killed while exercising on a trail in Maryland. Martinez-Hernandez was arrested in June in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and faces serious charges, including first-degree murder and first-degree rape. Patty Morin stood quietly behind Leavitt as she began to share her daughter’s heartbreaking story.
The room fell silent as Morin recounted the details of the crime. She explained how her daughter was attacked by Martinez-Hernandez, who waited until the trail was empty before he struck. Morin described the horrific violence Rachel endured, detailing how she was dragged, beaten, and ultimately raped before being killed.
Morin spoke directly to the reporters, emphasizing that many people do not know the full story of what happened to Rachel. She expressed the pain of learning the details during the trial, revealing the brutality of the attack and the extent of her daughter’s injuries. The autopsy showed severe trauma, with her skull shattered and significant brain damage.
As Morin continued, she made a passionate plea for the media to report the truth about violent crimes committed by illegal immigrants. She argued that these criminals pose a threat to American citizens and called for stronger measures to protect families like hers.
Despite the emotional weight of her words, the atmosphere in the room shifted when it came time for questions. Most reporters remained quiet, but a few from new media outlets raised their hands. Just as Morin was about to leave, CNN’s Kaitlan Collins thanked her for sharing her story, prompting a chorus of gratitude from the room.
Before exiting, Morin made one last appeal: “Please tell the truth. Tell how violent it really is.” She highlighted that this issue goes beyond politics; it’s about the safety of Americans and protecting children.
After her emotional address, Morin received a warm hug from Leavitt, a moment that underscored the gravity of her message. Patty Morin had shared her daughter’s tragic story, hoping to raise awareness and inspire action against violence. The reporters listened, some visibly moved, as she left the room, having made her voice heard in a powerful way.