Prosecutor: Texas teens killed girl, 15, in occult ritual

HOUSTON - Two teenage boys in Houston are accused of kidnapping and brutally murdering a 15-year-old girl as part of an occult ritual, reports CBS affiliate KHOU.

Jose Reyes, 17, and a 16-year-old boy are charged with capital murder in the weekend slaying of Corianne Cervantes.

The girl was found dead Saturday in a vacant apartment by a passer-by who noticed the apartment door was open. She disappeared several days earlier.

Investigators say Corianne was found partly clothed and had suffered head trauma and was sexually assaulted. They also say evidence of occultism was found on the girl’s body and inside the apartment.

According to KHOU, an upside down crucifix had been carved on her stomach.

Harris County jail records show Reyes, who was booked Monday, was being held without bond.

The 16-year-old boy charged in the case remains in custody awaiting an appearance in juvenile court.

Prosecutors allege Reyes convinced the 16-year-old to kidnap and murder Corianne so that the younger boy could "sell his soul to the devil," reports KHOU.

"They discussed the fact that Mr. Reyes had sold his soul to the devil, and if they ended up killing this teenager, this would allow the 16-year-old to also sell his soul to the devil." Assistant Harris County Attorney John Jordan said Tuesday.

Prosecutors say the 16-year-old suspect attended school with Corianne and that she likely entered the apartment willingly.