Father and Grandmother of Audrii Cunningham Release Statement Following Tragic Discovery
LIVINGSTON, Texas – The father of Audrii Cunningham along with her grandmother have released a statement after her body was found in the Trinity River on Tuesday.
A Devastating Tragedy
The Livingston community was heartbroken when 11-year-old Audrii Cunningham went missing, prompting an Amber Alert. Tragically, her body was discovered on Tuesday, bringing these six days of anguish to a painful conclusion.
Saturday, her father and grandmother released a statement, expressing their profound devastation with what happened to Audrii. They also shed light on the suspect in her murder, Don Steven McDougal, who was not listed in the sex offender registration system prior to being allowed to stay on their property. They shared their heartbreak and a plea for a review of the system.
Your Safety Matters
The Munsch and Cunningham families deeply appreciate the efforts made by law enforcement and are imploring lawmakers to address the loophole that prevented them from identifying the danger that McDougal posed as a convicted sex offender.
- The families acknowledge and thank the diligent work carried out by the Polk County Sheriffs’ Office, Livingston Police Department, Texas State Troopers, Texas Rangers, Texas State Guard, Trinity River Authority, FBI, and nearby County Sheriffs’ Departments.
- The families acknowledge the vital role played by the press and thank them for their coverage during the Amber Alert, as it significantly contributed to the community’s efforts in the search for Audrii.
Remembering Audrii
Audrii’s impact during her short life will not be forgotten. A public memorial ceremony will be held on Friday, Mar. 1, at the First Baptist Church in Livingston, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. The family kindly asks attendees to wear purple, Audrii’s favorite color, to honor her vibrant spirit. The following day, a private funeral ceremony will be held exclusively for close friends and family.
Flowers, cash, and check donations in memory of Audrii Cunningham are welcomed. Donations can be made through the Livingston VFW Post 8568, and a Venmo fund (Venmo@VFW8568) has also been established. Excess proceeds from these donations will benefit Texas EquuSearch and organizations dedicated to protecting children from sexual predators, as well as supporting affected families.
A Final Tribute
The families express their sincere gratitude to all who participated in the search for Audrii and hope for continued communal support in the future, remaining united in the common goal of safeguarding the well-being of our children. Their statement concludes with a heartfelt desire for blessings and safety.
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