A Texas teen has died following a brutal sexual assault in Midland.
According to family members, 15-year-old Jasmine Melendez was raped, beaten, and dumped in a yard, CBS 7 reports. First responders rushed her to a hospital in Dallas with fluid on her brain and severe head trauma.
The teen also had a heart attack and was taken off life support, family members said.
Midland authorities have not commented on the details of the case. Prior to her death, on Thursday afternoon, Midland police released a brief statement indicating they were investigating the sexual assault of a minor.
“The Midland Fire Department responded to a call for medical assistance on October 20, 2020 and due to the nature of the call, involving a juvenile, asked the Midland Police Department for assistance. The Midland Police Department responded and an investigation is on going.”
According to CBS 7, investigators have interviewed numerous suspects but so far, there have been no arrests.
Emotional moment for @MidlandHigh Softball as they carry the #12 jersey of their late teammate, Jasmine Melendez, around the bases.
First hit of the game: An MHS homer. pic.twitter.com/KiFyoJuJ3g
— Eliav Gabay (@eliavgabay) October 23, 2020
Jasmine was a softball player and part of Midland’s softball community, News West 9 reports. Her former softball coach, Jennifer Evans, remembers Jasmine as a compassionate person who was called “feet” because of her speed on the field.
“She was really compassionate, she would just lift everybody you know what I mean, she was encouraging,” Evans said.
“People called her feet because she was crazy fast. Even the ones who needed help or guidance or anything she would help them out she was a great friend.”
Meanwhile, a GoFundMe page has been created for the family to help out with medical and burial expenses.
Check back for updates.
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[Feature Photo: Jasmine Melendez/ Facebook; Midland United Girls Softball]
