Edna, Texas – The Texas Rangers have apprehended a man suspected of murdering a 16-year-old cheerleader who was discovered dead in her apartment bathtub. Rafael Govea Romero, 23, was arrested on a capital murder charge in the death of Lizbeth Medina, according to the Edna Police Department.
On Tuesday evening, authorities were called to the Cottonwood Apartments for an “unresponsive juvenile.” Paramedics pronounced Lizbeth dead at the scene. Her mother had found her lifeless body in the bathtub, and there were no signs of forced entry into the home. The cause of death and motive have not been disclosed by the authorities.
After releasing photos of Romero and describing him as a “person of interest,” the Edna police identified him as the suspect through collaboration with Texas Rangers. Romero, who is undocumented, was apprehended approximately 60 miles away in Schulenburg. He is currently held at the Jackson County Jail.
Capital murder charges are brought forth in instances where the perpetrator intentionally commits murder while engaging in another serious crime, such as kidnapping, robbery, or sexual assault. Lizbeth’s mother, Jacqueline Medina, expressed her anguish to local CBS affiliate KHOU, stating that her daughter was “murdered in cold blood.” The family had recently moved to Edna from Nebraska.
Lizbeth’s aunt created a GoFundMe page to support the grieving family, describing her niece as loved and deeply missed by everyone. The tragic loss has left the family and friends torn apart.
Edna Police Chief Rick Boone acknowledged that Romero’s arrest was just the beginning of the healing process for Lizbeth’s loved ones. He urged the community to continue supporting them during this difficult time.
Authorities are focusing on the ongoing investigation to gather all the necessary evidence and bring justice to Lizbeth Medina’s untimely death.