11-year-old dies by suicide after ICE threats from bullies

A profound tragedy has unfolded in Texas, where 11-year-old Jocelynn Rojo Carranza tragically took her own life on February 8, leaving her family in deep sorrow. Her mother reported that Jocelynn faced persistent bullying from her peers, who ridiculed her and accused her family of being undocumented immigrants.

The circumstances surrounding her untimely death are now under investigation, highlighting the severe harassment she endured at school. Her grieving mother hopes that Jocelynn’s story will raise awareness about the detrimental effects of bullying and the pressing need for reform.

Enduring taunts from peers, a Texas family has been devastated by the loss of 11-year-old Jocelynn Rojo Carranza, who died by suicide after reportedly facing bullying at school. Her mother, Marbella Carranza, shared that classmates targeted Jocelynn due to her family’s immigration status, which left her feeling despondent.

Reports indicate that Jocelynn Rojo Carranza suffered ongoing bullying at Gainesville Intermediate School. Marbella Carranza recounted that students threatened to report her parents to immigration authorities, instilling fear in Jocelynn.

“They threatened to call immigration to take her parents away, leaving her all alone,” Carranza informed CNN affiliate KUVN. Marbella chose not to comment on her family’s immigration situation.

“It seems the school was aware of the situation, yet they never informed me about what was happening with my daughter,” Carranza stated. “It appears she attended counseling sessions once or twice a week to discuss the bullying.”

In a statement to KUVN, the Gainesville Independent School District did not confirm whether they were aware of the bullying directed at Jocelynn Rojo Carranza. However, they underscored their commitment to addressing such incidents, asserting, “Whenever we receive a report of bullying, we respond promptly to ensure the safety and well-being of all students, both physically and emotionally.”
The district emphasized its commitment to addressing bullying, stating, “Although we are unable to disclose any details regarding specific students or incidents, our schools have implemented various policies aimed at combating bullying and resolving conflicts.”

“I seek justice because it is unjust — the school failed to keep me informed about my daughter’s situation,” Carranza expressed.

A love for dancing and swinging
Jocelyn was discovered unresponsive on February 3 in her family’s home in Gainesville. Despite attempts to revive her, the young girl succumbed five days later.

She was laid to rest on Wednesday, as family and friends mourned the tragic loss of a life taken too soon. During the service, the atmosphere was filled with sorrow as a mariachi band, situated in the church balcony, played a melancholic melody. In the same church where Jocelynn had been baptized 11 years earlier, her casket was covered with a white cloth, adorned with a crucifix.

“She was unable to comprehend the events occurring in the world,” remarked Gelasio Garcia, a deacon at the church, during his address at the service.

Jocelynn’s obituary portrayed her as a loving daughter, sister, niece, and a treasured friend to all who knew her.

She had a fervor for dancing and swinging, and she particularly enjoyed spending quality time with her family — whether it involved getting her nails done with her grandmother or participating in “movie night Fridays” with her loved ones. In a touching tribute, the Boys & Girls Club of Cooke County conveyed their condolences regarding Jocelynn’s passing, stating they were “deeply saddened” by her loss.

They also conveyed an important message, noting, “Her story serves as a reminder to always show kindness, as you never know what someone else may be enduring.”
It is profoundly tragic. That innocent young girl did not merit such a fate. The issue of bullying must be addressed and eradicated. My thoughts are with her family during this inconceivable time of grief, as well as with the individuals who engaged in bullying, who must now confront the repercussions of their behavior.