EDITOR'S NOTE: Isabella  Bella  Gonzales died from a gunshot wound five days after her 24th birthday. Her family believes intimate partner violence may hold the key to what happened-and her case could change how suspicious deaths are reviewed across North Texas.

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Isabella Nicole Gonzales had a smile that could light up a football field. Now, her death could shine a light on cases that investigators may have missed.

Known as Bella, the former competitive cheerleader and University of North Texas student died from a gunshot wound to the forehead, just five days after her 24th birthday.

Fort Worth police and the Tarrant County Medical Examiner's Office ruled her death a suicide.

Her parents, Billie and Jesse Gonzales, aren't convinced.

Isabella  Bella  Nicole Gonzales Family of Bella Gonzales

And now, a national team of experts is reviewing the case to determine whether evidence points to a possible crime.

 I think he beat her mentally and physically,  Billie Gonzales said of the man her daughter lived with.  I think that's definitely possible that she did it. I don't think she did, but it's definitely possible. 

The man has not been identified as a suspect or charged in connection with Bella's death. CBS News Texas is withholding his identity.

A journal, troubling texts, and questions about Bella's death

Bella's parents say they noticed changes after she entered a new relationship, five years after she ended a relationship with a previous boyfriend. She lost approximately 30 pounds in nine months, became increasingly isolated, and, according to her family, showed signs of abuse.

 I think she saw someone she thought she could help and save,  Billie said.

The family later discovered a journal describing alleged intimate partner violence.

 I get so afraid when I hear him wake up,  Billie recalled reading.

Another entry, she said, described Bella trying to escape as the man allegedly slammed her head into a wall and doorframe.

Investigators said Bella had a history of depression, suspected intimate partner violence, and messages they interpreted as suicidal. Toxicology resu
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