Family attack accused killer of 16-year-old in courtroom after he 'laughs’ at mom’s face

Diamond Alvarez's family has spoken out after a brawl broke out during Frank DeLeon Jr's appearance in court for the 16-year-old's murder.

Diamond Amie Alvarez passed away on 11 January, 2022 at the age of 16 after being shot in the back 22 times while out walking her dog in Houston.

Alvarez's ex-boyfriend, Frank DeLeon Jr - now 19 years old - was arrested and charged with murder several days later.

**Warning: Contains scenes of violence and discussion of bereavement some may find upsetting.**

Houston Police shared a booking photo of DeLeon on X - formerly known as Twitter - upon his arrest, alongside a statement.

It reads: "Investigators learned DeLeon was simultaneously in a romantic relationship with Ms Alvarez and another female. When Ms Alvarez learned of the other relationship, she met DeLeon at the park where he shot her multiple times.

"HPD detectives worked closely with the community to track down witnesses and leads. This cooperation led to DeLeon's arrest."

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Alverez's family were present at DeLeon's court appearance yesterday (Tuesday, 17 October) where the suspect pleaded guilty to the murder of Alvarez.

Alvarez's mother, Ashley Machado, took to the stand and described DeLeon as a 'monster' before walking back down and straight towards DeLeon.

In footage shared by KHOU 11, Machado can be seen being intercepted by a bailiff before she reaches DeLeon, but Alvarez's uncle then leaps over and starts punching DeLeon, DeLeon's mom later launching herself at Machado.

Machado later reflected the incident to FOX 26: "That was wrong of me. That was wrong of us because we’re not monsters.

"But it’s so much hate, because I want my daughter back, and what he did is horrible, seeing my daughter there and looking at him, knowing he did that, and him laughing at my face. It was very wrong and I’m so sorry for that."

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Alvarez, daughter to Anna Machado, Tito Moczygemba, sister to Ashley Machado and Abel Jr. Alvarez is described by her family as 'an extremely loving person, she was kind, funny, silly, beautiful inside and out'.

Her obituary continues: "Diamond had an unmatched personality, Diamond was unique, Diamond was special. Diamond is and will always be remembered as the sweet girl that she was. A beautiful bright shining star we will forever and always hold in our hearts. Who did not deserve what was done to her.

"Diamond leaves us with memories to cherish. Diamond loved to dance, take pictures, laugh, help people. A kind and gentle soul taken too soon from us. Diamond will be forever missed by her family and many others who have her in their thoughts and prayers. We will never forget you beautiful sweet baby girl."

After apologising for the brawl, Machado concluded by telling reporters: "I've been fighting for justice and today, finally, my daughter has justice.

"He has got what he deserves and I'm gonna focus on my family and Diamond has her justice."

DeLeon's final sentencing is set to take place tomorrow (Thursday, 19 October), the 19-year-old having been offered a deal of 45 years in prison if he pleaded guilty, eligible for parole after half that time and waiving his right to appeal.

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available through Mental Health America. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org. You can also reach Crisis Text Line by texting MHA to 741741.

You can also call 1-800-985-5990 or text “TalkWithUs” to 66746 at the SAMHSA Disaster Distress Helpline.

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