Natalie Chavez, a 15-year-old girl, was found dead under a bridge on the West Side of San Antonio on December 18, 2014. Her body was discovered naked and showed signs of a struggle. The Bexar County medical examiner later ruled her cause of death as asphyxia, indicating she was likely strangled. The tragic circumstances surrounding her death led to an extensive investigation by the San Antonio Police Department.
In the months following her death, the investigation revealed that Natalie
Chavez had run away from home and had not been reported missing at the time of her murder. Her family described her as a good daughter and friend, with a passion for photography, sports, and attending church. Despite the cruel and inappropriate social media posts that surfaced after her death, her family chose to focus on honoring her memory and the beautiful person she was.
The investigation took a significant turn when authorities found foreign DNA on Chavez's body during a forensic examination. This DNA evidence led them to Johnny Avalos, a 28-year-old man who was already in custody on a charge of sexual assault of a child. Avalos was named as a person of interest in Chavez's death and was later charged with capital murder. The arrest warrant affidavit stated that Avalos admitted to having sex with the teen for a predetermined amount of money. Authorities also believe Avalos is tied to the death of Celia Lopez, a 29-year-old woman, and a third attack against another woman on the South Side, which left her with critical injuries.
The case of Natalie Chavez's death highlights the complexities and challenges faced by law enforcement in solving such tragic crimes. The investigation continues as authorities work to bring justice for Natalie Chavez and her family.
