Jocelyn Nungaray (December 27, 2011 – June 17, 2024) a 12-year-old from Texas, was tragically found deceased by strangulation in a shallow creek near her home.
Police discovered her body off West Rankin Road near the North Freeway after she allegedly snuck out of her home around 10 p.m. on Sunday.
Her mother last saw her before bedtime, believing she had left their apartment complex that night. Investigations revealed that Jocelyn went to a local convenience store, where authorities believe she encountered two males.
During this time, she reportedly called her 13-year-old boyfriend, who later recounted hearing her talking to adults at the store. Houston Mayor John Whitmire shared this information during a press conference.
Nungaray’s parents want justice for her
Jocelyn’s family is in deep grief and seeking justice after her tragic death. Her grandmother, in a heartfelt interview, urged the community to support them during this difficult time, saying, “We really want justice for her. We are asking for everyone’s help.”
Jocelyn’s grandmother described her as a kind-hearted and loving girl. The family had recently returned from their annual vacation at Garner State Park, cherishing precious memories together.
Jocelyn’s mother, Alexis Nungary, expressed profound sorrow over her daughter’s untimely loss. “She’s meant to be here. She’s supposed to be here,”
Alexis said, “She remembered Jocelyn as having aspirations, being loving to everyone, and a great friend with a playful, goofy personality.”
Alexis shared that she did not believe her daughter knew the men seen on surveillance cameras.
“She’s not one to be aggressive and say, ‘Stop talking to me,'” Alexis explained. “She is very shy and quiet and keeps to herself. I felt like she maybe didn’t want to be rude, and that’s why she was pacing back and forth and trying to safely get away from the situation. She unfortunately got caught with the wrong people at the wrong time.”
Two arrested for Joseline Nungaray’s murder
Police have arrested two men in connection with the death of 12-year-old Jocelyn Nungaray, who was found dead in a Houston creek.
Jocelyn had snuck out of her home around 10 pm on Sunday night and was last seen with Johan Jose Rangel Martinez, 21, and Franklin Jose Pena Ramos, 26, who lived nearby.
Houston police Lt. Stephen Hope announced on June 20 that both men have been charged with capital murder and are in custody.
Ramos had previously been fitted with a GPS ankle monitor by ICE but had removed it before his arrest. Martinez had also been released by border agents in March.
Surveillance footage showed Jocelyn with the suspects near a local restaurant, then at a convenience store, and finally heading to a bridge where police believe she was killed.
The investigation led to the suspects being detained at an apartment complex on Northborough Drive. Evidence found there was crucial to their arrest.
Police are still investigating the relationship between Jocelyn and the suspects. The case is being handled with utmost seriousness as officers work to uncover all details surrounding her tragic death.
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Jocelyn Nungaray FAQs
Ques: How old was Jocelyn Nungaray?
Ans: Nungaray was just 12 years old.
Ques: Who are the victims of Jocelyn Nungaray’s murder?
Ans: Johan Jose Rangel Martinez and Franklin Jose Pena Ramos.
Ques: How did Jocelyn Nungaray die?
Ans: Jocelyn died of due to strangulation.
Ques: What is the name of Jocelyn Nungaray’s mother?
Ans: Alexis Nungary.