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‘Smart and sweet’: Family shares memories of 12-year-old Jocelyn Nungaray after she was found dead in Houston creek

Jocelyn Nungaray, 12. (Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston - All rights reserved.)

HOUSTON – The sudden death of 12-year-old Jocelyn Nungaray has many in the community in shock, grief and in an uproar. Many have offered condolences, prayers, sharing posts to help bring awareness.

RELATED: Medical examiner releases identity of 12-year-old girl found strangled in Houston creek

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The girl’s body was found in shallow water of a creek, at 400 W. Rankin Road near Ella, in north Houston on Monday. The family of Jocelyn was in complete shock when the medical examiner’s office confirmed her identity on Wednesday.

Jocelyn, better known as Jocy to her family and friends, was described as a beautiful and bright girl who had a future ahead of her.

Her grandmother spoke with KPRC 2, stating that Jocelyn and her family were starting a new chapter as her family had just moved to the area near Rankin and Kuykendahl roads.

SEE ALSO: Woman describes moment she discovered 12-year-old girl’s body in N. Houston creek

She described her as “quiet, independent, smart and sweet.” Jocelyn always dreamed of being an actress and loved music. She also loved spending time with her brother.

Jocelyn’s uncle, Joamel, said “Jocy was a smart, loving, nurturing young lady. She brightened up the room every time she came by and was loved by everyone around. She had no reason to die the way she did. She was always smiling and enjoyed time with us (her family) she was her little brother Elias’ role model. My sister, nephew, and family deserve justice! We will not sleep until justice is served and these predators are in the Harris County Jail. In God’s name we pray!”

The suspects involved in Jocelyn’s death have not been found at this time as police continue to search for more evidence that will lead to an arrest.

RELATED: ‘Like a bad dream’: Police say 12-year-old found dead in N. Houston creek was strangled, seek 2 persons of interest

It is heartbreaking that these stories are becoming more evident as this is not the first homicide involving a child in the Houston area this year.

Earlier this year, KPRC 2 covered the tragic death of little Audrii Cunningham who was abducted and murdered in the Livingston area.

SEE ALSO: ‘She was amazing’: Family of Audrii Cunningham shares exclusive insights into the life of the Livingston girl murdered

In honor of Jocelyn’s (Jocy) memory, the family has created a GoFundMe page, saying that they are in need of extra help as they were not prepared for the loss of their beautiful daughter. They added that they would love to give her the memorial she deserves and are asking is asking for the public’s help to provide any possible tips, to find justice for Jocelyn Nungaray.

SEE ALSO: Summer safety tips for parents: Ensuring children’s well-being during the break


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