Jocelyn Nungaray murder: Suspects' details and investigations

Two Venezuelan men charged with capital murder for the death of 12-year-old Jocelyn Nungaray in Houston, Texas, sparking national outrage.

Police in Houston, Texas, have released mugshots of two men suspected of brutally killing a 12-year-old girl, sparking national outrage due to the shocking nature of the crime and the immigration status of the suspects.

Johan Jose Rangel Martinez, 21, and Franklin Jose Pena Ramos, 26, have been charged with capital murder in the death of Jocelyn Nungaray, whose body was discovered in a creek early Monday morning.

Both men, originally from Venezuela, reportedly entered the U.S. illegally and had previous encounters with immigration authorities. The Department of Homeland Security is being contacted for further information on their immigration status.

According to the Houston Police Department, Jocelyn was strangled to death. The suspects allegedly lured her under a bridge, where they spent two hours with her, before stripping her, tying her up, and ultimately killing her. Her body was then discarded in the creek.

Surveillance footage led authorities to the suspects' location at an apartment complex, where they were apprehended. One of the men attempted to flee but was quickly caught by police.

Jocelyn's mother is said to be devastated by the loss of her daughter. The suspects reportedly encountered Jocelyn on the street, visited a convenience store, and then headed to the bridge where the crime took place. They were later seen returning home, leaving Jocelyn's body behind.

Both Martinez and Pena had previous run-ins with immigration authorities near El Paso, Texas, and were released. Following their recent arrest, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement has launched an investigation.

Houston Mayor John Whitmire emphasized the need for the justice system to act swiftly and hold the suspects accountable without bail, given the severity of the crime and the risk of flight.

A vigil for Jocelyn is planned for Friday evening in Houston, as the community mourns the tragic loss of the young girl.

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