Family seeks justice for teen killed in Bridgeland stabbing

Published August 23, 2026 10:39 PM CDT

A Houston family is pushing for answers and justice nearly a year after 17-year-old Braylen Ezell was stabbed to death in Bridgeland.

High school student killed

Braylen Ezell

What we know:

Ezell, a student at Langham Creek High School in Cypress-Fairbanks ISD, was killed on September 13, 2025.

His mother, Larissa Espinoza, says Braylen had been at a house party that Friday night before going to a friend’s home along Trinity Star Drive.

She says a group of people later showed up, and a fight broke out. Braylen and another teenager were stabbed during the altercation.

Espinoza says the fight was captured on cellphone video.

Both teenagers were rushed to the hospital. Braylen died from his injuries, while the other teen survived.

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Family remembers 17-year-old

What they're saying:

"It’s every parent’s worst nightmare. Life is never gonna be the same," Espinoza said.

On Sunday afternoon, Braylen’s family, friends and loved ones gathered near where the stabbing happened to remember him and continue pushing for answers.

His sister, Jayla Ezell, described Braylen as the "glue" of their family and someone who could get along with anyone.

"He was awesome. Everybody loved him," she said. "He was an amazing kid."

Jayla Ezell (right)

Braylen was just starting his senior year of high school when he was killed.

Nearly a year later, his family says they are frustrated that no arrests have been made and are seeking justice.

"Justice looks like the kid that stabbed my child and took him from me to be prosecuted," Espinoza said.

Braylen’s father, Brent Ezell, says the family will continue speaking out and are fighting for accountability.

"Braylen was important to us," he said. "We’re gonna keep doing what we’re doing. We’re just getting started, really."

Dig deeper:

Jayla is also urging anyone who witnessed what happened or knows something about the case to come forward.

"Everybody involved, you were there. You know what happened," she said. "Please come forward for Braylen. Say something."

Harris County sheriff's investigation remains open

What's next:

The Harris County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the homicide.

FOX 26 reached out to the sheriff’s office for an update on the case. The sheriff's office said there is no new information at this time.

FOX 26 also reached out to the Harris County District Attorney’s Office and is waiting to hear back.

The Source: Information in this article was provided by FOX 26's Jillian Hartmann.

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