The funeral for Jocelyn Nungaray, the 12-year-old Houston girl allegedly killed by two illegal immigrants and left for dead in a creek, will be held Thursday. Jim McIngvale, also known as “Mattress Mack” in the Houston area, is generously covering the costs for the service and will be hosting a celebration of Nungaray’s life at one of his Gallery Furniture locations. The tragic death of Nungaray, who was found strangled near a creek, has deeply impacted the local community and raised concerns about border policies.
Following the heinous crime, two illegal immigrants from Venezuela, Johan Jose Rangel Martinez, 21, and Franklin Jose Peña Ramos, 26, were charged with capital murder by Harris County prosecutors. The pair allegedly lured Nungaray under a bridge, sexually assaulted her for two hours, and then took her life. The evidence suggests that a sexual assault likely occurred during the brutal attack.
Ramos, one of the suspects, was wearing a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency (ICE) ankle monitor at the time of Nungaray’s murder. This tragic incident adds to a series of gruesome crimes across the country involving illegal migrants, prompting concerns about the criminal justice system’s ability to prosecute such cases effectively.
McIngvale, known for his philanthropic efforts in the Houston area, expressed his heartbreak over Nungaray’s untimely death and his willingness to support her family during this difficult time. He highlighted the challenges faced by families of victims in Harris County, where the trial process can be prolonged, allowing perpetrators to remain free on bail for extended periods.
The situation has sparked outrage and calls for justice from various individuals, including Houston Mayor John Whitmire and Senator Ted Cruz. Whitmire emphasized the importance of holding the suspects accountable and ensuring that justice is served swiftly in this case. Bail for Martinez and Ramos was set at $10 million each, reflecting the seriousness of the charges they are facing.
In response to the tragic loss of Jocelyn Nungaray, Senator Cruz called for the ultimate penalty of the death sentence if the suspects are convicted. He also criticized the Biden administration’s border policies, attributing the crime to the lack of proper enforcement measures. The community has come together to mourn the loss of a young life and demand justice for Nungaray and her family.
As the funeral approaches, the focus remains on honoring Jocelyn Nungaray’s memory and seeking closure for those affected by her senseless death. The support from individuals like Jim McIngvale underscores the importance of compassion and solidarity in times of tragedy, reminding us of the resilience and unity within the community during challenging moments.