
Sat Mar 01 06:53:09 UTC 2025: ## 11-Year-Old Girl’s Suicide Prompts Investigation into Bullying and Alleged Abuse
**Gainesville, TX** – The death of 11-year-old Jocelynn Rojo Carranza, who died by suicide on February 8th, has sparked a multifaceted investigation by the Gainesville Independent School District (GISD). While the mother, Marbella Carranza, initially blamed the school for her daughter’s death, citing bullying over the family’s immigration status, the GISD investigation revealed allegations of sexual abuse within the family.
Multiple students reported that Jocelynn had confided in them about being inappropriately touched by a family member, requesting secrecy to protect the abuser. The district also learned that Jocelynn had previously shared suicidal intentions with a cousin. Superintendent DesMontes Stewart confirmed these findings.
Ms. Carranza vehemently denies the sexual abuse allegations, stating she had repeatedly spoken to Jocelynn about the topic and insists she was unaware of any therapy her daughter might have received. She maintains her earlier claim that bullying targeting her daughter’s immigration status, including threats to call Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), contributed to Jocelynn’s suicide. She has hired legal counsel and is awaiting a response from the district.
The school acknowledges that a bus driver confirmed comments about ICE and deportation were made on the school bus near Jocelynn, though she wasn’t directly involved in the conversation. The GISD is now facing questions about its handling of both the alleged bullying and the reported sexual abuse, and whether appropriate actions were taken to protect Jocelynn. The investigation is ongoing.