In a significant development, two individuals in Puerto Rico have pleaded guilty to conspiring to commit a hate crime in connection with the tragic killing of transgender woman Alexa Negrón Luciano, more than three years ago. The victim had faced threats and was subjected to a paintball gun attack, with the assailants identifying her from social media posts related to her use of the women’s restroom at a fast-food establishment, as reported by the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
This disturbing incident took place in the early hours of February 24, 2020, in the northern coastal town of Toa Baja. Tragically, Alexa Negrón Luciano succumbed to her injuries and was found dead from gunshot wounds. Shockingly, no one has yet been charged in connection with her murder, leaving a cloud of uncertainty hanging over the case.
As the legal process unfolds, a sentencing date for the two men who have pleaded guilty to the hate crime has yet to be scheduled. This case serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by the LGBTQ community, particularly transgender individuals, and underscores the need for continued efforts to combat hate crimes and discrimination across Puerto Rico and beyond.
Our thoughts are with Alexa Negrón Luciano’s loved ones as they seek justice for this heartbreaking loss, and we will continue to follow this story closely as it develops.