Texas Wildlife Refuge Renamed to Honor Jocelyn Nungaray: 'Her Life Mattered'

The Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge in Texas has been renamed as the Jocelyn Nungaray National Wildlife Refuge, paying tribute to a 12-year-old Houston girl whose tragic death last year shook the nation. The park’s new signage was unveiled in a ceremony attended by Jocelyn's mother, marking a somber but powerful statement: her life mattered.

This 39,000-acre sanctuary on the Texas Gulf Coast is a haven for migratory birds and wildlife, and now, it stands as a memorial to Jocelyn. During the ceremony, Interior Secretary Doug Burgum delivered a moving speech, urging everyone to let the land "speak her name" and ensure her story is never forgotten. It was an emotional moment for Jocelyn's mother, Alexis Nungaray, who described the renaming as both shocking and bittersweet—a mix of pride and grief that no parent should ever have to navigate.

The renaming was first announced by President Donald Trump during a joint address to Congress in March, where he signed an executive order officially changing the park's name. The move has since become a flashpoint in the ongoing debate over border security and immigration policy, as Jocelyn's murder was allegedly perpetrated by two Venezuelan men who entered the country illegally.

Governor Greg Abbott expressed hope that Jocelyn's family could find some peace in the refuge's tranquility, describing it as a lasting tribute to a young girl who loved animals and was taken far too soon.

Jocelyn's death gained national attention and fueled criticism of current immigration policies, particularly after authorities revealed her accused killers were not only in the U.S. illegally, but may have connections to the notorious Tren de Aragua gang from Venezuela. Prosecutors have stated they will seek the death penalty for 22-year-old Johan Jose Martinez-Rangel and 26-year-old Franklin Jose Peña Ramos, who face accusations of kidnapping, sexual assault, and murder.

The details remain deeply disturbing: Jocelyn was kidnapped, assaulted, and ultimately killed, her body left beneath a bridge. A tragedy like this leaves a scar, but the hope is that this renamed refuge will keep her memory alive and spark conversations that lead to change.