Houston 16-year-old charged with capital murder for killing of 17-year-old

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- In a highly unusual move, Houston police released the name and photo of a 16-year-old wanted for capital murder.

JaVory McDuell is charged in the shooting death of Isaiah Avila, 17, last October.

He is one of three teens accused of killing Avila. The two others are in the custody of the Harris County Juvenile Probation Authorities, according to HPD, but McDuell remains at large.

In a news release, police said, "On Feb. 24, a judge signed an order permitting HPD to release the name and a photo of the wanted juvenile suspect."

Avila's mother told ABC13 that she had pushed detectives to explore a legal exception.

"I really appreciate the judge," the victim's mother, who asked to remain anonymous because of safety concerns, said. "It's really important because he is a danger."

Under Texas law, the identities of juvenile suspects are typically kept private in the spirit of rehabilitation and to allow minors to move forward without the stigma of a public criminal record. However, legal experts suggest that the judge in this case deemed McDuell a significant public safety threat, warranting an exception.

According to prosecutors, McDuell's case is part of a growing and troubling trend. The Executive Bureau Chief of the Harris County District Attorney's Office noted a sharp increase in homicides committed by juveniles.

"A few years ago, we averaged 20-25 homicides a year involving youth. Last year, that number was 49. Tragically, most of the victims are also young people," explained John Jordan.

State data indicates that juvenile homicide charges in Texas increased by 108% between 2019 and 2024.

When he was shot, Avila was in the driver's seat of his car that he had recently purchased, his mother said. While police have not released a motive, she believes he was the victim of a robbery and said she wants those responsible held accountable, even if they are children.

"I just want justice for my son. I know it won't bring him back, but at least we'll have them."

Anyone with information on McDuell's whereabouts is urged to contact the HPD Homicide Division at 713-308-3600 or speak anonymously with Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS.

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