UPDATE: The body of Fernando Cota, an alleged serial killer and convicted rapist, will be exhumed from Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery in Texas. This urgent action comes under legislation sponsored by U.S. Senator John Cornyn, following a request from the son of one of Cota’s alleged victims.
Cota, a Vietnam War veteran, was buried in the national cemetery in 1984. The decision to disinter his remains has sparked outrage, as many believe it dishonors the memory of the over 170,000 veterans interred there. “It would be a slap in the face to allow Fernando Cota, a convicted rapist and alleged serial murderer, to remain buried amongst such heroes,” Cornyn expressed in a statement.
Details surrounding the timeline for the exhumation remain unclear, but the move aims to reflect the changing laws regarding burial in national cemeteries, which now prohibit certain convicted criminals from interment.
Cota’s criminal history is chilling: he was suspected of murdering six women in San Jose, California. His violent past included a 1975 conviction for the brutal assault of a nurse in El Paso. After serving time, he was paroled in 1983. Just a year later, he took his own life following an erratic driving incident, during which police discovered the body of 21-year-old Kim Marie Dunham in his van.
After Cota’s death, investigators found horrific evidence in his home, including a small cell equipped with restraints, which he allegedly used to torture victims. They also uncovered a disturbing collection of items, including fake ID cards and belongings of his victims.
As public outcry grows, co-sponsor U.S. Senator Ted Cruz stated, “A convicted rapist should not be buried with honor among our nation’s heroes.” This statement underscores the urgency and importance of revisiting Cota’s burial status.
The exhumation of Cota’s remains marks a significant step towards justice for the victims and their families. As this story develops, many are left wondering what this decision means for the ongoing efforts to honor those who truly deserve a place among America’s heroes.
Stay tuned for updates on the timeline and further developments surrounding the exhumation process.
