Renamed Wildlife Refuge Honors Memory of Girl Allegedly Murdered by Illegal Immigrants

EXCLUSIVE: Alexis Nungaray, mother of 12-year-old Jocelyn Nungaray, expressed that renaming a local wildlife refuge in memory of her daughter represents a significant milestone for her family. The tragic circumstances surrounding Jocelyn’s murder have drawn attention to issues of immigration and border security.

A Heartbreaking Loss

Jocelyn Nungaray’s life ended in a horrific manner, leading to her mother becoming an outspoken advocate for tougher immigration policies. Authorities allege that two illegal immigrants, Franklin Jose Pena Ramos and Johan Jose Rangel Martinez, members of the Tren de Aragua gang, murdered her. They allegedly entered the United States during the Biden administration. Her lifeless body was discovered bound in a bayou in Houston, sparking outrage and calls for justice.

Honoring Jocelyn’s Memory

In her interview with Fox News Digital, Alexis shared her belief that the tragic way her daughter died overshadows her true essence. However, the planned renaming of the 39,000-acre wildlife refuge on the Texas Gulf Coast is an effort to celebrate what Jocelyn loved in life. Alexis aims to ensure that Jocelyn is remembered for her passion for animals and nature.

A Presidential Gesture

Proudly, Trump executed an order on March 5 to rename the former Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge as the Jocelyn Nungaray National Wildlife Refuge. This decision has immediate implications, providing a lasting tribute to the young girl.

Legislative Support for the Renaming

Senator John Cornyn and Congressman Brian Babin, both Republicans from Texas, have introduced bills to solidify Trump’s executive order into law. Such legislation would make it more challenging for a future administration to alter the refuge’s name. The Senate has already approved the bill, and Babin is currently navigating its passage in the House of Representatives.

Babin conveyed optimism regarding the bipartisan support for his bill, indicating that he anticipates swift passage in the House and subsequent presidential approval. He articulated the desire to preserve Jocelyn’s legacy through tangible legislative action.

Reflections on Legacy and Policy

Babin emphasized the importance of codifying the renaming in order to prevent similar tragedies in the future. He stated that enshrining this name would serve as a reminder of the consequences of flawed immigration policies, which he believes contributed to Jocelyn’s tragic fate.

Affectionate Memories of Jocelyn

For Alexis, the initiative to rename the refuge represents a deeply personal journey. It touches every aspect of her heart and that of her family. She illustrated Jocelyn’s love for animals and nature, conveying that her daughter wanted every creature to have a secure home.

Seeing the signs featuring Jocelyn’s name around Houston evokes bittersweet emotions in Alexis. She reminisced about visiting the refuge, highlighting the peace she felt, reflecting that her daughter would have adored the location.

Beyond a Tragic Image

Alexis passionately asserts that Jocelyn was not merely a victim whose life was cut short. Instead, she paints a picture of a vibrant, creative young girl who enjoyed life. Jocelyn had a flair for style, often dressing in trendsetting 1990s attire and enjoying music from earlier decades.

In Alexis’s eyes, Jocelyn’s uniqueness and creativity highlighted her as an amazing friend and a joyful spirit. These memories keep her legacy alive, making the renaming of the wildlife refuge all the more significant.

An Ongoing Advocacy

Alexis Nungaray expresses gratitude towards Trump for his commitment to immigration issues and enforcing stronger border policies. She acknowledges the importance of immigration but emphasizes the necessity of doing so responsibly and safely.

Despite acknowledging the progress in border security, Alexis insists that significant work remains to be done. She pledges to continue advocating for her daughter and for more effective immigration laws, believing wholeheartedly that her daughter’s tragic death was preventable.

Preserving Memories and Promoting Change

The renaming of the wildlife refuge stands as a poignant tribute to Jocelyn Nungaray. Through this act, Alexis Nungaray hopes to maintain her daughter’s spirit and advocate for stronger policies that safeguard the lives of all families. The close-knit community that loved Jocelyn stands united in honoring her memory while pushing for the necessary changes that will prevent future tragedies.