In a tragic turn of events, a suspect has been arrested in connection with the death of 16-year-old cheerleader Lizbeth Medina. The young girl was found dead in the bathtub of her Texas apartment earlier this week, leaving her family and community devastated. The suspect, identified as Rafael Romero, a 23-year-old undocumented male, was taken into custody in Schulenburg, Texas, approximately 75 miles north of Edna, where Medina resided.

Romero, now facing charges of capital murder, which carries the possibility of the death penalty, has been transported back to Jackson County Jail. The arrest brings some sense of relief to the citizens of Edna, as Police Chief Rick Boone expressed in a statement, "The citizens of Edna can now sleep in peace!". However, he also acknowledged the ongoing grief of Medina's family and friends, emphasizing the need for continued support from the community during this difficult time.

Despite the arrest, many questions remain unanswered. Police have not yet disclosed whether Romero and Medina knew each other, nor have they revealed a possible motive for the heinous crime. Furthermore, the cause of Medina's death has yet to be released, and an autopsy report is still pending.

The heartbreaking discovery was made by Medina's mother, Jaqueline, who had gone searching for her daughter when she failed to show up at a Christmas parade where her cheerleading squad was set to perform. Upon returning to their apartment, Jaqueline found her daughter unresponsive in the tub. Tragically, the teenager was pronounced dead at the scene.

Medina, a student at Edna High School, had moved to Texas from Nebraska just a year ago, as stated on a GoFundMe page set up by her aunt. According to her aunt, Medina had aspirations of becoming a nurse. Described as charming, young, and full of energy, Medina's life was cut short, leaving her loved ones devastated.

The arrest of Romero comes after the Edna Police Department announced they had identified a person of interest and an associated vehicle in the case. Low-resolution images of a man resembling the suspect were released to the public, generating leads that led to Romero's apprehension. The tight-knit community of Edna mourned the loss of Medina at a candlelight vigil held the night before Romero's arrest.

As the investigation continues, the Edna Police Department remains dedicated to seeking justice for Medina. Police Chief Rick Boone expressed his gratitude to his officers, acknowledging the demanding and emotionally taxing nature of the case. Despite being a small department, the officers have gone above and beyond, willingly working extra hours and even on their days off to ensure justice is served.

Born and raised in Nebraska by her single mother, Medina had quickly become a beloved member of the Texan community. A GoFundMe page was set up by her family to help cover funeral and memorial expenses, and the outpouring of love and support from friends and strangers alike is a testament to the impact she had on those around her. Ana Medina, Medina's aunt, conveyed the family's gratitude, stating, "She was loved by many but most importantly she is loved and will be missed by the family.".