EDNA, Tx. (KPRC) - A Jackson County, Texas judge accepted a guilty plea from Rafael Romero in the murder of 16-year-old Lizbeth Medina, a former Grand Island resident, and beloved Edna cheerleader.

Romero now faces two life sentences for murder and aggravated robbery, plus a 20-year sentence for burglary to be served consecutively, according to our sister station in Houston KPRC.

Up until 2022, Medina lived in Grand Island .

The verdict brings some closure to Medina’s family, though emotions ran high in the courtroom. Cameras were not allowed, but Lizbeth’s mother, Jacqueline Medina, read an emotional impact statement through tears. She spoke with KPRC 2 news reporter Corley Peel after the hearing.

“It’s something we’ve been waiting for over a year. Hearing those words— ‘guilty’ — th

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