Victim in Apple Valley Homicide Identified as 21-Year-Old Daniel Aguilar; Family Launches GoFundMe for Funeral Support
APPLE VALLEY, MINNESOTA—The victim in a recent Apple Valley homicide has been identified by family as Daniel I. Aguilar, a 21-year-old described as a beloved nephew, godson, and cherished family member. Aguilar tragically lost his life in the early morning hours of Sunday, July 7.
In the wake of this sudden and devastating loss, Aguilar's family has shared a heartfelt message expressing their grief and gratitude for the outpouring of community support.
“It is with deep sorrow that we share the devastating news of the sudden and unexpected loss of our beloved nephew and godson, Daniel I. Aguilar. As our family begins to process this unimaginable loss and make arrangements, we want to thank everyone who has reached out with love, prayers, and support. Your kindness means more than words can express.”
A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to help Aguilar’s mother, Tere, and his siblings — Angel, Pepe, Ximena, and Zoe — cover funeral expenses and navigate the difficult days ahead. Donations can be made at: https://gofund.me/c3ead3bb
The family says service details will be shared once finalized.
Aguilar’s death remains under investigation by Apple Valley Police. As previously reported, officers responded to a weapons-related incident in the early morning hours of Sunday, July 7, 2025. On Monday, July 8th, the Apple Valley Police provided an update identifying the suspect in the fatal stabbing. The Hennepin County Medical Examiner’s Office released the official autopsy findings and further confirmed Aguilar’s identity late Wednesday morning.
Initial Story: Investigation Underway After Man Found Dead in Apple Valley
Suspect Identified
Police have identified Aron Isait Medina Rojas, born February 10, 2005, as a suspect in the case. Investigators believe Medina Rojas may be attempting to flee to Mexico. He is associated with a 2017 gray Chrysler 300, bearing Minnesota license plate JPU 845, although it is unknown if he is still using the vehicle.
“If you see Medina Rojas, do not approach—call 911 immediately,” Apple Valley Police said in the statement. “Anyone with information on his whereabouts is urged to contact us at (952) 322-2323.”
For more information on the suspect, you can go to this article: Homicide Victim Suffered Multiple Stab Wounds; Suspect Identified in Apple Valley Investigation.
Written by: Will Wight
