Undocumented Male Suspect in Texas Teen's Murder Placed on $2 Million Bond
ICARO Media Group
Texas authorities have set a $2 million bond for the undocumented male suspect in the murder of 16-year-old Lizbeth Medina. The suspect, identified as 23-year-old Rafael Govea Romero, has been charged with capital murder and is now under an ICE detainer.
The Edna Police Department, in a press release on Monday, stated that they received information regarding the suspect's location on the evening of Saturday, December 9th. Acting swiftly, the police, along with the Texas Rangers, gathered evidence and coordinated with the Schulenburg Police Department. They then moved to the suspect's location in Schulenburg, Texas.
Upon arrival, the officers made contact with the owner of the residence who confirmed the presence of the suspect, Rafael Govea Romero. The authorities seized a motor vehicle and found items of evidence that linked Romero to the murder of Lizbeth Medina. He was subsequently transported by officers to the Jackson County Jail, where he was booked on murder charges.
Lizbeth's mother, Jacqueline Medina, spoke to Fox News Digital and expressed that she does not know the suspect personally. Jacqueline discovered her daughter's lifeless body in their apartment bathtub on the evening of Tuesday, December 5th, after Lizbeth failed to appear at a Christmas parade where she was meant to participate with her cheer team.
The investigation into Lizbeth's murder is ongoing, and authorities are careful in releasing information to the media to protect due process, adhere to ethical rules, and avoid a trial by press conference.
Edna Police Department Chief Rick Boone expressed gratitude to the local and state law enforcement agencies involved in the case. He commended his own officers for their dedication and hard work in seeking justice for Lizbeth.
Jacqueline stated that she and her daughter were the only ones with keys to their apartment in the Cottonwood Apartments complex in Edna. They were staying there temporarily after relocating from Grand Island, Nebraska, as Jacqueline had recently started a new job in renewable energy.
On the morning of December 5th, Jacqueline left the apartment around 6 a.m. for work, waking up Lizbeth for cheer practice before she left. Lizbeth was expected to attend school that day but never arrived, which may have gone unnoticed as she had called in sick the previous day. Police were called to the scene after 6 p.m. on December 5th, initiating a homicide investigation.
Jacqueline described her daughter as an amazing and caring person. Lizbeth was mature for her age and had a positive impact on the lives of those around her. The Medina family has launched a GoFundMe campaign titled "Justice for Lizbeth Medina" to support their efforts in seeking justice for their beloved daughter.
The investigation into Lizbeth's murder remains a priority as authorities work diligently to uncover the truth and bring those responsible to justice.