Natalie Chavez, 15, was found dead under a bridge on the West Side of San Antonio on December 18, 2014. Her body was discovered naked, showing signs of a struggle, and the Bexar County medical examiner ruled the cause of death as asphyxia, indicating likely strangulation. Investigators later learned she had run away from home and had not been reported missing when she was killed.

Forensic testing uncovered foreign DNA on Chavez’s body that investigators linked to Johnny Avalos, then 28 and already in custody on a sexual assault of a child charge. Avalos was named a person of interest and later charged with capital murder; the arrest affidavit says he admitted to having sex with the teen for a predetermined amount of money. Authorities also believe Avalos may be tied to the death of Celia Lopez, 29, and to a separate attack on another woman that left her critically injured.

Natalie’s family described her as a good daughter and friend who loved photography, sports, and attending church. The investigation remains active; anyone with information about Natalie or the night of December 18, 2014, is asked to come forward.