TL;DR
- Shyyell Diamond Sanchez-McCray was killed in Virginia.
- She was a prominent Black trans drag performer.
- Her death marks the first known trans killing of 2026.
- Friends and family are mourning her loss.
- Activism against racism in LGBTQ spaces was part of her legacy.
In a heartbreaking turn of events, the vibrant world of drag has lost one of its shining stars. Shyyell Diamond Sanchez-McCray, a 42-year-old Black transgender woman and beloved drag performer, was shot and killed in Petersburg, Virginia, on March 13. The news of her tragic death has sent shockwaves through the LGBTQ community, highlighting the ongoing violence faced by trans individuals, particularly those of color.
Police responded to a shooting call early that morning and found Sanchez-McCray’s lifeless body inside a home. Initial reports failed to respect her identity, misgendering her, which is a painful reminder of the disrespect many trans individuals face even in death. She suffered multiple gunshot wounds and was pronounced dead at the scene. As of now, details surrounding the circumstances of her killing remain scarce, leaving friends and family in anguish.
Known affectionately as Mable, Sanchez-McCray was not just a performer but a fierce advocate for the rights of the Black trans community. She was a frequent competitor in drag pageants and had a notable presence in the Charlotte Black Pride Pageant circuit, winning titles such as Miss Mayflower EOY in 2015 and Miss Charlotte FFI-at-Large in 2020. Her contributions to the drag scene were celebrated by many, including RuPaul’s Drag Race alum Kennedy Davenport, who shared heartfelt tributes on social media.
Beyond her performances, Sanchez-McCray was deeply involved in activism. In 2023, she joined forces with fellow activists to boycott Bar at 316, an LGBTQ+ sports bar in Charlotte, after reports of racist microaggressions from staff. Sanchez-McCray alleged that the bar’s owner had previously used racial slurs against her. This courageous stand against racism in LGBTQ spaces showcased her commitment to justice and equality. Sadly, the bar closed its doors in 2024, a testament to the impact of her activism.
As we mourn the loss of Shyyell Diamond Sanchez-McCray, it’s crucial to remember that her death is part of a larger, tragic pattern. In 2025 alone, at least 27 trans individuals were killed in the U.S., with a significant number being Black trans women. This violence is a stark reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by the trans community and the urgent need for systemic change.
A funeral service for Sanchez-McCray is scheduled for March 27 at 6 p.m. at Johnson Celebration of Life Center in Petersburg, where friends and family will gather to celebrate her life and legacy. As we reflect on her contributions to the drag community and her fight for trans rights, let us also commit to honoring her memory by advocating for justice and equality for all marginalized communities.