NCIS: Origins has introduced several plot holes into the NCIS universe since its premiere in October, but its latest twist revealed that not everything is as it seems. NCIS: Origins episode 9 showed Gibbs and Lala teaming up to investigate a missing persons case that leads them to Tijuana, Mexico. While there, they learn that the case has larger ties to a human trafficking ring led by the Reynosa cartel, the infamous organization that is directly related to the deaths of Gibbs’ wife and daughter.
Lala immediately called in the rest of the team for backup, since the case’s connection to the cartel only increased the stakes for Gibbs. The trafficking ring could finally lead to the capture of the leader of the cartel, Pedro Hernandez, and help Gibbs achieve justice for Shannon and Kelly. Previous episodes of NCIS: Origins revealed that Gibbs had tried but failed to track down Hernandez to avenge the deaths of his family. It was always implied that Gibbs’ change in demeanor was because of his growth around his loss, but the latest reveal about Hernandez implies something different.
NCIS: Origins Confirmed That Gibbs Did Kill Hernandez Before Joining NIS
Gibbs Kept Hernandez’s Murder A Secret From His Team
In the final moments of NCIS: Origins episode 9, Lala learns that Hernandez was killed 6 months ago by a sniper. A Reynosa cartel member tells her that the cartel just covered up his death to not look weak to the others. When Lala shares this information with Gibbs and Franks, nothing else is said, but a slight smile appears on Gibbs’ face, revealing that he already knew that because he was the sniper.
While Lala is angry and Franks just stares blankly at Gibbs, it is clear that they both understand that Gibbs is the killer.
While Lala is angry and Franks just stares blankly at Gibbs, it is clear that they both understand that Gibbs is the killer. The reactions of Lala and Franks at that moment reveal that they did not know that Hernandez was dead, and their differing reactions also reveal their compassion towards Gibbs. Lala is angry that Gibbs did not trust her enough to tell her, but Franks understands. Franks’ reaction towards Tish’s abuse even implies that he would probably do the same thing if he were in Gibbs’ situation.
Why NCIS: Origins Had To Imply That Hernandez Was Still Alive
The Secret Made For A Better Reveal
A deeper look into Hernandez’s murder was one of the most anticipated NCIS: Origins stories following the original show. The deaths of Gibbs’ wife and daughter are so important to Gibbs’ persona that his act of vengeance is one of the best Gibbs moments, as it truly reveals Gibbs’ character. Implying that Hernandez had not been killed yet at the start of NCIS: Origins made for an exciting mystery for NCIS fans to follow, given the significance of the moment.
Keeping Hernandez’s death a secret in NCIS: Origins also aligned with Gibbs’ values. He keeps things to himself and only shares when it is absolutely necessary. Moreover, his reserved nature is symbolic of his rule #4: “The best way to keep a secret? Keep it to yourself.” While killing Hernandez was likely a full-circle moment for Gibbs, it was also incredibly painful because it symbolized all the loss in his life. It made sense for him not to tell anyone.