Family Links Bullying Over Immigration Status to Tragic Suicide of 11-Year-Old

GAINESVILLE, Texas — A heartbreaking tragedy has unfolded in Gainesville as a family mourns the loss of their 11-year-old daughter, Jocelynn Rojo Carranza. Her recent passing, attributed to an apparent suicide, has sparked outrage and calls for justice over allegations of bullying linked to her immigration status.

Jocelynn, a vibrant sixth grader known for her love of dance and play, was remembered at a standing-room-only funeral held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, where her mother, Marbella Carranza, sought to celebrate her life. “That’s how I’m going to remember her,” Carranza shared just hours after interring her daughter.

In the wake of Jocelynn’s death on February 8, her mother disclosed that bullying had intensified at Gainesville Intermediate School, beginning with incidents on the school bus. Carranza learned posthumously that her daughter had been visiting a school counselor multiple times a week due to the emotional torment from peers who mocked her family’s immigration status.

“They would tell her ICE was going to come and get her parents,” Carranza recounted, emphasizing the distressing rumors that plagued her daughter. This bullying allegedly stemmed from the fact that Jocelynn’s parents are immigrants, leading to a torment that ultimately proved overwhelming.

While the Gainesville Independent School District refrained from commenting on Jocelynn’s case specifically, they issued a statement reiterating their commitment to a safe educational environment. “Our top priority is to ensure a safe and comfortable learning environment for all students,” the district affirmed, highlighting their zero-tolerance policy toward bullying.

As the family confronts unimaginable grief, Carranza is vocal about the need for accountability. “Why didn’t they ever inform me what was happening at school with my daughter?” she questioned, pleading for oversight to prevent similar tragedies. “I want justice for my child. Pay attention. The school needs to pay attention.”

To assist with medical bills and funeral expenses, two GoFundMe campaigns have been launched by Jocelynn’s father and aunt, alleviating some financial burden during this difficult time.