Two Migrants Charged with Abduction and Murder of 12-Year-Old in Texas
Two Venezuelan migrants have been charged with capital murder for the death of 12-year-old Jocelyn Nungaray, whose body was found in a creek in Houston after she was abducted late Sunday night.
The suspects, identified as Johan Jose Rangel Martinez, 21, and Franklin Jose Pena Ramos, 26, were tracked down through surveillance footage showing them following Nungaray before she was murdered. The body of the young girl, who had snuck out of her apartment, was found floating in a creek in Houston. The authorities are continuing to investigate the suspects' immigration histories with the assistance of Homeland Security, though the immigration status of Martinez and Ramos remains unclear. Nungaray's tragic death has left her family and the local community in deep grief and anger.
Investigators first became aware of the suspects when they reviewed surveillance footage from a local convenience store. In the footage, Johan Jose Rangel Martinez and Franklin Jose Pena Ramos were seen following 12-year-old Jocelyn Nungaray into the store. Records show that Nungaray had left her apartment late Sunday night before encountering the suspects.
The final moments of Nungaray's life, as captured in various surveillance videos, show her accompanied by the two suspects to a nearby 7-Eleven convenience store. The footage then reveals the trio moving towards a bridge. This is where authorities believe the murder took place before Nungaray's body was discovered in the creek.
The investigation took a significant turn when authorities identified the suspects living as roommates in a local apartment complex. Both men were subsequently arrested at the residence without further incident. The prosecution has charged Martinez and Ramos with capital murder, a charge that can carry severe penalties, including the death penalty or life imprisonment without parole in the state of Texas.
Nungaray's cause of death was determined to be strangulation. It is still unclear whether the suspects intended to kill Nungaray from the beginning or if the situation escalated during their encounter. Forensics teams continue to work the scene and analyze evidence collected from both the creek and the suspects' apartment.
The case has drawn the attention of Homeland Security, which has opened an investigation into the suspects’ immigration histories. Local authorities have not yet confirmed if Martinez and Ramos were legally residing in the United States. Homeland Security's involvement suggests a thorough review of how both men entered and lived in the country, which may add layers to the judicial process.
Jocelyn Nungaray's family has been devastated by the tragic loss. Her mother, in particular, has expressed profound anger and deep sorrow over the death of her daughter. 'No one should have to bury their child, especially in such a tragic way,' she said in a brief statement. The community has rallied around Nungaray’s family, offering support and condolences.
The murder has especially impacted the local community, as families and residents express feelings of shock, fear, and grief. Many are calling for heightened security measures and better community policing to prevent such incidents in the future. In response, local authorities have increased patrols in the area and emphasized the importance of vigilance among community members.
As the investigation continues, authorities are urging anyone with additional information to come forward. Tips from the public can play a crucial role in piecing together the full context of the events leading up to Nungaray's death and ensuring that all parties responsible are held accountable. Law enforcement wants to make it clear that no detail is too small in a case of this magnitude.
Officials have also highlighted the importance of parents knowing the whereabouts of their children, especially during late hours. Community leaders are planning to hold a series of town hall meetings to discuss safety measures and provide resources for parents to help safeguard their children.
Martinez and Ramos currently remain in custody as they await their next court appearance. The trial is expected to draw significant public and media attention, given the tragic circumstances and the involvement of federal agencies in the investigation. As more details emerge, the community remains united in the quest for justice for Jocelyn Nungaray.