Edna, Texas – The tragic murder of 16-year-old Lizbeth Medina, allegedly at the hands of illegal immigrant Rafael Govea Romero, has sparked a call for stricter laws to prevent offenders from slipping through the cracks. Romero, a 24-year-old undocumented immigrant from Mexico, stands accused of stalking and fatally stabbing Lizbeth in the Edna apartment she shared with her mother in December 2023.
Romero had previously been on probation for a burglary in Schulenburg, Texas, not far from Edna, in 2022. Edna police suspect Romero may also be linked to a burglary that occurred at Lizbeth’s home about a month prior to her murder. The tragedy has left the community reeling and seeking justice for the young victim.
In a heartfelt plea for stricter laws, Lizbeth’s aunt, Ana Medina, questioned why offenders like Romero are given leniency while others with lesser offenses are not granted second chances. Ana emphasized the importance of holding individuals with criminal histories accountable and ensuring that those on probation are closely monitored to prevent further harm.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Houston have taken action by lodging an immigration detainer with the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office on Romero following his arrest. The focus is now on pursuing justice and seeking appropriate consequences for individuals with violent tendencies.
The family’s ordeal began on a fateful day when Jacqueline Medina, Lizbeth’s mother, discovered her daughter’s lifeless body in their bathtub. Neither Jacqueline nor Lizbeth knew Romero, but the house had been burglarized prior to the tragic incident. Through meticulous investigative work, authorities were able to trace the suspect back to the crime scene using vital evidence.
Romero, who pleaded not guilty at a recent hearing, maintains his innocence as he looks ahead to his trial. His defense attorney, Chris Iles, expressed readiness to defend his client’s case in court. The community continues to mourn Lizbeth’s untimely death and stands in solidarity with her family as they seek justice for their beloved daughter.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the quest for justice and accountability remains at the forefront of the community’s concerns. The tragic loss of Lizbeth has served as a rallying cry for stricter laws and increased vigilance in monitoring individuals with criminal backgrounds to prevent similar tragedies from occurring. The memory of Lizbeth lives on as her loved ones and the community unite in seeking justice and closure in the aftermath of this devastating loss.