HOUSTON, TX – A GoFundMe campaign set up to support the family of 12-year-old Jocelyn Nungaray, who was tragically found dead in a north Houston creek earlier this week, has exceeded its $35,000 goal.
As of Monday morning, donations have surpassed $58,000 to assist the family with expenses related to Jocelyn’s death. At a public vigil on Friday, Houston Mayor John Whitmire announced that local businessman Jim McIngvale would cover the funeral costs for the family.
During the vigil, Jocelyn’s mother, Alexis Nungaray, shared memories of her daughter.
“She was goofy, had her own personality,” Alexis said. “One of a kind. Trendsetter. Loved, loved animals.”
Many attendees wore “Forever 12” shirts to honor Jocelyn.
“I was looking forward to seeing how beautiful she was going to be,” her mother added.
Two illegal immigrants entered the U.S. have been arrested and charged with capital murder in connection with Jocelyn’s death. Alexis Nungaray was informed of the arrests before the charges were made public.
Franklin Jose Peña Ramos, 26, and Johan Jose Rangel Martinez, 22, face capital murder charges.
According to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), the two men entered the U.S. illegally at an unknown date and location. They are currently held on immigration detainers at the Harris County Jail.
Ramos and Martinez were scheduled to appear before a judge on Friday afternoon but waived their appearances. They are expected to appear in front of Judge Josh Hill in the 232nd District Court on Monday.
