Elgin man formally charged in shooting

A $1 million bail has been set for the 20-year-old Elgin man accused of firing multiple shots at his ex-girlfriend Thursday morning.

Bernardino Hernandez of 519 W. Highland Ave. (upper level) in Elgin, was formally charged Saturday with aggravated battery with a firearm and attempted first-degree murder, according to court documents.

If Hernandez is convicted of both Class X felony charges, he could spend 12 to 60 years in prison.

The victim, 21-year-old Guadalupe Aguirre of 370 Ann St. in Elgin, was hit with three bullets in the back as she attempted to take cover, according to a report of the shooting.

She said she heard knocking on her bedroom window about 3:10 a.m. Thursday, became frightened and was shot as she attempted to flee.

Acquaintances said the victim and Hernandez had a baby together and had argued over the child's custody.

Hernandez was taken to the Elgin Police Department for questioning at 8 a.m. Thursday and charges were filed against him Friday afternoon.

Elgin police said no one else has been questioned as a suspect in the case.

Five shell casings have been located so far around 370 Ann St., according to police.

In court on Saturday, Hernandez said he lived with his ex-girlfriend for a year to 18 months before moving in with his uncle at 519 Highland about three or four months ago.

Hernandez said he was born in Illinois, lived in the United States all his life, had no criminal convictions and had never been arrested before.

He also said he is not currently employed but has worked as a landscaper in the past.

Assistant Kane County State's Attorney Danielle Bechtold asked for a $1 million bail for Hernandez because "both charges are Class X felonies and a gun was used in the commission of the crime."

Kane County Judge Karen Simpson agreed and set Hernandez' bond at 10 percent of $1 million.

His next court appearance is scheduled for July 10 at the Kane County Judicial Center.