HOUSTON, TX – Two men were arrested on Thursday by Texas police in connection with the rape and murder of 12-year-old Jocelyn Nungaray, whose body was found in a creek in north Houston. The discovery occurred near 400 West Rankin Road around 6:15 a.m. on Monday, following which an autopsy confirmed she had been strangled.
Houston Mayor John Whitmire revealed earlier this week that the girl had also been sexually assaulted. The crime prompted an intensive investigation involving interviews and surveillance footage. According to detectives, Jocelyn had left her home late Sunday to meet her 13-year-old boyfriend. The couple then went to a restaurant, where they encountered the two men.
Further surveillance captured the group walking to a nearby convenience store. Authorities believe the men accompanied Jocelyn to a bridge on Rankin Road, where they allegedly committed the murder. The community and law enforcement have been deeply affected by this tragic incident, leading to a rapid and thorough response in pursuit of justice.
Johan Jose Rangel Martinez, 21, and Franklin Jose Pena Ramos, 26, both Venezuelan natives, were arrested and charged for the murder.