Daniel Isaac Aguilar, 21, Identified as Victim in Apple Valley Stabbing — Police Name Suspect Now Believed to Be Fleeing Toward Mexico
Apple Valley, MN — July 8, 2025
A Twin Cities community is in mourning and on edge after authorities confirmed that Daniel Isaac Aguilar, a 21-year-old Lakeville man, was the victim of a fatal stabbing in Apple Valley early Sunday morning. As the investigation intensifies, police have identified a suspect who they believe may now be attempting to flee the country.
What We Know So Far
At approximately 3:12 a.m. on Sunday, July 6, officers from the Apple Valley Police Department responded to a report of an unconscious man lying on the sidewalk near Pennock Avenue and 138th Street West. Upon arrival, officers discovered Aguilar suffering from multiple stab wounds. Despite efforts to revive him, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
The Hennepin County Medical Examiner confirmed Aguilar’s identity on Tuesday after completing an autopsy. His cause of death was determined to be multiple sharp force injuries.
Suspect Identified: Aron Isait Medina Rojas
Police have identified 19-year-old Aron Isait Medina Rojas as the prime suspect in the case. Medina Rojas, whose date of birth is February 10, 2005, is now wanted for questioning in Aguilar’s murder and is considered armed and dangerous.
Authorities believe Medina Rojas may be attempting to flee to Mexico, possibly using a 2017 gray Chrysler 300 registered in his name with Minnesota license plate SKU892. It is not known if he is still driving this vehicle.
“We are urging the public: Do not approach this individual,” said Apple Valley Police Chief Jon Rechtzigel. “If you see him or the vehicle, call 911 immediately.”
Photos of Medina Rojas and a stock image of the vehicle have been released to aid in the search.
A Community in Mourning
Daniel Aguilar’s family is devastated. He was described by his brother as “a beam of light” who was full of love, life, and kindness.
“Daniel wasn’t involved in gangs or violence. He was a good soul. This makes no sense,” said a close friend. “He had so much to look forward to.”
A memorial vigil is being organized by his family and friends. A GoFundMe page has also been launched to help cover funeral expenses and support his grieving family during this tragic time.
Police Plea for Public Assistance
This remains an active and ongoing investigation. Authorities are seeking:
- Surveillance footage from residents near the Pennock Ave and 138th St W area between 2:00 a.m. and 3:00 a.m. on July 6.
- Tips or sightings of Medina Rojas or the vehicle he may be using.
Anyone with information is urged to call the Apple Valley Police Department at (952) 322-2323 or dial 911 immediately.
Background and Possible Motive
While a motive has not yet been released publicly, investigators believe this was not a random attack. Medina Rojas and Aguilar are believed to have been acquaintances, though the nature of their relationship remains under investigation.
Sources say the level of violence suggests a deeply personal conflict. However, police have declined to speculate further until additional evidence is gathered.
What Comes Next
The search for Medina Rojas is now a statewide and possibly international manhunt, with law enforcement agencies across Minnesota and federal partners including the U.S. Marshals and Customs and Border Protection on alert.
Authorities have confirmed that an arrest warrant has been issued, and extradition proceedings will follow if he is found outside the U.S.
Final Thoughts
This tragedy underscores the ripple effects of violent crime, leaving families broken and communities shaken. Daniel Aguilar’s life was stolen far too soon, and now the pursuit of justice becomes paramount.
The Apple Valley community is standing together to remember Daniel — and to ensure that the person responsible is held accountable.
For those seeking more details or to support the Aguilar family, search “Daniel Aguilar GoFundMe Lakeville”