As we look back on 2024, we remember the stories that moved us, informed us, and sometimes broke our hearts.
Here’s a look at some of the stories that defined this year, in no particular order.
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Former Texans, Ravens wide receiver, Super Bowl standout Jacoby Jones dies
Jacoby Jones, a former wide receiver for the Texans and a Super Bowl standout with the Baltimore Ravens, passed away in his sleep at the age of 40. Known for his record-breaking 108-yard kickoff return in Super Bowl XLVII, Jones was celebrated both for his electrifying play on the field and his joyful personality off it.
A New Orleans native and Lane College alumnus, Jones built an enduring legacy through his contributions to football and his commitment to mentoring younger players. His former teammates and coaches remember him as a man of faith, humility, and kindness. Jones transitioned into coaching after his NFL career, most recently serving as head coach and offensive coordinator for the Beaumont Renegades.
This piece was written by Aaron Wilson, a Texans and NFL reporter for KPRC 2.
Tropical Storm Beryl moves through NE Texas, flooding continues to impact the Houston area
In July, Tropical Storm Beryl made headlines as it swept through northeast Texas, bringing heavy rain and flooding to the Houston area. The storm made landfall near Matagorda with winds of 45 mph, leaving parts of the region inundated with up to 15 inches of rain.
While flood watches eventually expired, many neighborhoods remained underwater, with downed trees, power outages, and roof damage adding to the challenges. Throughout the storm, KPRC 2 was there for the community, providing real-time updates and vital safety information to help residents navigate the severe weather.
This story was written by KPRC 2 Storm Tracker Team, including Caroline Brown, Justin Stapleton, Daji Aswad, and weather intern Amanda Goluszka.
How to get reimbursed for food lost during a power outage without insurance
In a year marked by severe weather, including Hurricane Beryl, the May Derecho, and widespread power outages, many Houstonians were left wondering how to recover from food losses caused by extended power outages.
KPRC 2’s Amy Davis provided crucial answers for those without insurance, including how SNAP recipients can apply for replacement benefits. By dialing 2-1-1 or completing Form H1855, eligible residents could have their lost food benefits reimbursed and reloaded onto their Lone Star Cards.
This article was written by Amy Davis, Investigative Reporter, and Andrea Slaydon, Senior Investigative and Special Projects Producer.
‘Deadliest drug threat US has ever faced’: Man charged with importing 2,000 kilos of chemicals to make fentanyl pills
In a record-breaking case, U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani announced the indictment of Minsu Fang, a Chinese national charged with conspiring to import over 2,000 kilograms of fentanyl precursor chemicals. This marks one of the largest fentanyl-related seizures in the country, with the chemicals being smuggled from China into the U.S. and then transported to Mexico for pill production.
Fang and his associates allegedly disguised the shipments as low-value items to evade detailed inspections. Arrested in New York City in June, Fang faces up to life imprisonment and a $10 million fine if convicted.
This article was written by Brittany Taylor, Senior Digital Content Producer.
Woman known as ‘Brick lady’ charged in Houston after being accused of making whole thing up, raising $42K on GoFundMe
In one of the year’s most bizarre viral stories, Roda Osman, known as the “Brick Lady,” was charged with felony theft by deception after allegedly fabricating a story about being hit in the face with a brick outside a Houston club. The incident gained national attention through a viral Instagram video and a GoFundMe campaign that raised over $42,000 before being frozen due to fraud reports.
Investigators revealed Osman’s claims were inconsistent with surveillance footage and statements from witnesses, leading to questions about her history of similar scams. Osman also faced scrutiny for a 2020 GoFundMe campaign in Minneapolis, where she allegedly used a similar narrative to solicit donations. As of now, Osman has not been arrested, despite agreeing to surrender to authorities. This case underscores the importance of verifying claims in the era of viral fundraising.
This article was written by Brittany Taylor, Senior Digital Content Producer.
Bond denied for capital murder suspect in connection to 11-year-old Audrii Cunningham’s death
The tragic disappearance and death of 11-year-old Audrii Cunningham in Livingston shocked the community this year. After being reported missing on Feb. 15, her body was discovered six days later in the Trinity River, tied to a rock, in what authorities described as a horrific crime. Don Steven McDougal, a family friend with a prior criminal history, was charged with capital murder in connection to her death. Investigators pieced together evidence from surveillance footage, cell phone data, and witness reports to locate Audrii and connect McDougal to the crime.
The heartbreaking loss of Audrii, described by her family as a “truly beautiful and precious human being,” leaves a void that can never be filled. This devastating case is a reminder of the importance of community vigilance and justice for victims of such unimaginable acts
This story was written by Brittany Taylor, Senior Digital Content Producer, along with reporters Re’Chelle Turner, Corley Peel, and Bryce Newberry.
A leader of MS-13, known as one of the ‘Twelve Apostles of the Devil,’ arrested at Houston airport
The arrest of Cesar Humberto Lopez-Larios, a top leader of MS-13 known as one of the original “Twelve Apostles of the Devil,” marked a significant victory against the notorious international gang. Lopez-Larios, apprehended at George Bush Intercontinental Airport after over three years on the run, is accused of orchestrating violent crimes, including murder and drug trafficking, as part of the “Ranfla Nacional,” MS-13’s leadership structure.
Under his influence, the gang expanded its operations across borders, committing heinous acts and financing its criminal network. His arrest disrupts a decades-long reign of terror, with formal charges pending in New York. Authorities continue their search for two other high-ranking leaders, offering a $20,000 reward for information.
Written by Jason Nguyen, KPRC 2 Senior Investigates Producer.
Mother charged after 17-month-old daughter dies in Galveston
The tragic death of 17-month-old Hannah Yonko in Galveston deeply shook the community this year. Her mother, Channel Yonko, was charged with capital murder after the child was found on a road near 59th Street with severe traumatic injuries and later pronounced dead at a hospital. Galveston Police Chief Doug Balli described the incident as a “horrible crime,” emphasizing the department’s commitment to seeking justice for Hannah.
Investigators revealed the child suffered injuries consistent with a fall, alongside other unexplained wounds. The Galveston Police Department continues to urge anyone with information or surveillance footage to come forward.
Written by Michael Horton and Christian Terry, Digital Content Producers.
Child, man injured and suspect killed in Lakewood Church shooting in Houston
The shooting at Lakewood Church in Houston earlier this year was a devastating event that left a 7-year-old boy critically injured, a man wounded, and the suspect dead. The woman, who entered the church armed with a rifle and holding a child, opened fire just after the afternoon service had concluded. An off-duty Houston police officer and a TABC agent engaged the suspect, ultimately shooting her. Before her death, the woman claimed to have explosives in her vehicle, but none were found. The incident caused panic among congregants, with witnesses recalling hearing multiple gunshots. This tragic day highlighted the resilience of Houston’s community and law enforcement’s swift response.
Written by Christian Terry, Digital Content Producer, and Moriah Ballard, Digital Reporter.
Suspects linked to Jocelyn Nungaray’s murder in north Houston identified, facing capital murder charges
The tragic murder of 12-year-old Jocelyn Nungaray in north Houston left the community grieving and demanding justice this year. Jocelyn’s body was found in a creek after she went missing, with the Harris County Medical Examiner ruling her death a result of strangulation. Two suspects, Johan Jose Rangel Martinez, 26, and Franklin Jose Pena Ramos, 21, were identified and charged with capital murder.
Surveillance footage played a pivotal role in tracing their steps with Jocelyn before her death, ultimately leading to their arrests at a nearby apartment complex. Jocelyn’s mother, Alexis Nungaray, spoke of her heartbreak and called for justice, describing her daughter as “smart and sweet.”
This story was written by Brittany Taylor, Senior Digital Content Producer, Mario Díaz, Investigative Reporter, Millie Quintanilla, Assignment Editor, Ahmed Humble, Digital Content Producer, Roger Franco, Photojournalist, and Re’Chelle Turner, Reporter.