Edna, TX – A 25-year-old man has been sentenced to life in prison after being convicted of killing 16-year-old cheerleader Lizbeth Medina. Her body was found in the bathtub of her apartment, just days before she was supposed to perform in a Christmas parade.
Murder Details and Sentencing
Rafael Govea Romero, who was arrested shortly after the murder in Schulenburg, Texas, received two life sentences plus 20 years for the murder and robbery of Lizbeth Medina. The tragic event unfolded in December 2023, when Lizbeth was discovered dead in her bathtub by her mother, Jacqueline Medina, in their Edna apartment, about 100 miles southwest of Houston.
The judge’s decision marks a turning point in a long-awaited quest for justice, as Lizbeth’s family has been waiting nearly two years for this moment. The emotional sentencing comes after Romero had overstayed a work visa and was apprehended days after the crime.
The Heartbroken Mother Speaks Out
After the sentencing, Lizbeth’s mother, Jacqueline Medina, shared a powerful message, expressing her emotions to Crossroads Today.
“I don’t think he deserves any of my words — I won’t give him the power that would give him. But if I had one thing to say to him, I would tell him: you didn’t win.”
Jacqueline spoke about her daughter’s light-hearted and ambitious nature:
“Lizabeth was so kind-hearted. She was goofy and funny — she was a light when she walked into a room. She was compassionate toward others, and she had so many dreams that were all hers.”
Jacqueline further expressed how her daughter’s spirit would live on forever, even though she was taken too soon:
“She will always be my little girl — even though she was 16 when she was taken from me, she will always be my little girl. That’s Lizzo — my Lizzo. I will continue fighting for her because that’s what she deserves.”
Community and Law Enforcement Response
The devastating loss of Lizbeth has affected her entire community in Edna, Texas. According to Edna Police Chief Rick Boone, “Although Romero is apprehended, we recognize Lizbeth’s family and friends are grieving and will still need support from the community.”
Romero’s arrest came 60 miles away in Schulenburg, a few days after the crime. The case has drawn widespread attention, highlighting the devastation of a young life taken too soon.
Lizbeth’s Dreams and the Tragic Circumstances
Lizabeth, affectionately known as “Lizzo” by her mother, had just moved to Edna from Nebraska when the tragedy occurred. Jacqueline Medina recalled how the day was supposed to be a joyful occasion.
“It should have been a great day because she was involved in the Christmas parade. She was going to be with the cheer squad,” said Jacqueline, breaking down as she described the moments before she discovered her daughter’s body.
She added that Lizbeth’s death was “cold-blooded murder” that shattered their family and community.
Community Support and Tributes
Lizbeth’s family continues to mourn, with family members expressing their love and loss. In a GoFundMe page created by Lizbeth’s aunt, it was stated:
“She was loved by many but most importantly she is loved and will be missed by the family.”
Her tragic loss has deeply impacted her friends and family, who are now trying to cope with the heart-wrenching loss.
Conclusion
The sentencing of Rafael Govea Romero brings some closure to a tragic case, but the pain of losing a vibrant young life remains with Lizbeth Medina’s family. Her mother continues to fight for justice in honor of her daughter, who was taken far too soon.
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