Shannon Boswell, a Black transgender woman from Stone Mountain, Georgia, was fatally shot and run over by a car last week just before her 31st birthday.
Why It Matters: The incident adds to the rising number of violence cases against transgender individuals, increasing ongoing safety concerns for the community.
Details of the Incident
Initial reports mistakenly identified the shooting as a hit-and-run before a medical examiner confirmed the cause of death was a gunshot wound. Local authorities are seeking more information from the public.
- Initial Confusion: First responders mislabeled the incident, leading to delays in proper classification.
- Family’s Suspicion: Boswell’s family and friends believed she had been shot, which was later validated by the medical report.
Eyewitness Account
Witnesses described a sequence of disturbing sounds that included a gunshot followed by what seemed like a car crash, adding confusion to the incident.
Police Appeal for Information
DeKalb County police are urging anyone with details about the incident to come forward as they continue their investigation.
- Contact Information: Community members can reach out to the police at (404) 294-2911.
Broader Context
Shannon Boswell’s death contributes to a growing list of violent incidents involving transgender individuals across the country.
- Trend: Boswell is the 19th trans person reported killed in the U.S. this year.
- Reporting Issues: Misreporting such incidents is common, often involving victims being misgendered.
The Quote: DeKalb County Commissioner Ted Terry condemned the violent death. “We are deeply saddened by the tragic and violent death of Shannon Boswell. Initial reports failed to recognize the gravity of this heinous crime, which targeted a transgender woman in our community. Our hearts go out to Shannon’s family and friends during this incredibly difficult time. We stand in solidarity with them and mourn this profound loss,” Terry said.
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