The family of 12-year-old Jocelyn Nungaray, who was allegedly murdered by two undocumented immigrants in Houston, speaks out, calling for justice and remembrance while grappling with the pain of their loss.
In the wake of the tragic murder of 12-year-old Jocelyn Nungaray in Houston, Texas, her family has come forward to share their anguish and demand justice. The senseless act that took her life has left an unfillable void in their hearts, while also igniting a fierce determination to honor her memory.
Alexis Nungaray, Jocelyn's mother, has been at the forefront of the family's plea for accountability. She has expressed her unwavering belief in the justice system, calling for the perpetrators to face the full extent of the law. "She had such a bright future," Alexis said of her daughter. "She didn't deserve to die this way."
Remembering Jocelyn Nungaray: A Life Cut Short by Senseless Violence
The suspects in the case, Johan Jose Martinez-Rangel, 21, and Franklin Jose Peña Ramos, 26, are accused of capital murder. They have been charged with sexually assaulting Nungaray before strangling her to death. If convicted of the sexual assault charges, they could potentially face the death penalty, a prospect that Nungaray's family vehemently opposes.
"I'd rather for them to remember this in [a prison's] general population," said Kelvin Alvarenga, Nungaray's grandfather. "Life without parole. That way, they can remember every night when they go to bed the horrific deal that they did to our family."
Remembering Jocelyn Nungaray: A Life Cut Short by Senseless Violence
The pain inflicted upon the Nungaray family has been compounded by the political overtones surrounding the case. Former President Donald Trump reached out to Alexis Nungaray just before a debate against President Joe Biden, invoking her daughter's murder as an example of the dangers posed by illegal immigration.
While grateful for Trump's support, Alvarenga cautioned against using Jocelyn's memory as a "political base." "I want them to know her name as well," he said.
Remembering Jocelyn Nungaray: A Life Cut Short by Senseless Violence
The senseless nature of Nungaray's murder has also sparked outrage in the Houston community and beyond. Local officials and crime victim advocates have called for tougher bail laws for capital murder suspects, while the Nungaray family has urged the Texas Senate to pass "Jocelyn's Law," which would deny bail for such individuals.
Beyond the legal and political implications, the Nungaray family is focused on preserving Jocelyn's legacy and ensuring that her dreams are not forgotten. "She would always say that she wanted to be a superstar, and so I think that we need to continue on her dream," said Alvarenga. "Under the circumstances, which are not the greatest, she will become a superstar."
Remembering Jocelyn Nungaray: A Life Cut Short by Senseless Violence
As the court proceedings unfold and the suspects face the consequences of their actions, the Nungaray family remains steadfast in their demand for justice. They are determined to honor Jocelyn's memory and ensure that her life was not taken in vain.
"She was already a star in our lives," said Alvarenga. "Now we're going to make it worldwide."
