The DC Trans Coalition has issued the following statement after an attack at a bus stop killed a transgender woman Thursday night:
Yesterday evening MPD informed us of an attack on a trans woman at a bus stop near the intersection of East Capitol Street and Sycamore Street NE. Apparently some sort of altercation broke out between the victim and the assailant. A third person was at the bus stop and chased after the attacker, but he got away when the witness realized the victim was in serious need of medical attention. The victim, who has not yet been identified, was stabbed in the cheek. She passed away from her injuries around 2:30 this morning at Prince George’s County Hospital.
We are working with the police to try to identify the victim in this case. Please take some time today to check in on your friends and loved ones. If someone you know is missing, or you can’t get in touch with them, please let us know.Additionally, we condemn in the strongest possible terms the transphobic language deployed by several media outlets last night and this morning. While we certainly agree that the general public needs to be aware of trans communities’ losses and successes, it is imperative that members of the press refer to trans people in a way that respects each person’s gender identity or expression.
We will continue to keep you posted as we learn more about this horrific incident. As always, if you have been a victim of violence, or if you know someone who has, you can reach out to us at 202.681.3282 or email dctc@dctranscoalition.org. You can also call Transgender Health Empowerment at 202.636.1646 or HIPS via their 24-hour hotline at1.800.676.HIPS. If you need police assistance, dial 911 or call the Gay and Lesbian Liaison Unit at 202.506.0714.
