London, UK – An 18-year-old transgender girl was brutally stabbed 14 times at a birthday party in London over the weekend. The victim, who has chosen to remain unidentified, was attending the party when a group of people began hurling transphobic slurs at her. According to reports, the attacker then proceeded to repeatedly stab the victim with a knife. The victim was rushed to the hospital and has since been discharged, as stated by the Metropolitan Police.
Following the attack, four individuals have been arrested in connection with the incident. One of the suspects, 19-year-old Summer Betts-Ramsey, appeared in court and has been charged with attempted murder and possession of an offensive weapon in public. Despite denying involvement in the stabbing, Betts-Ramsey will remain in custody until a plea hearing on March 12.
In a statement, Detective Inspector Nicola Hannant of the Metropolitan Police described the attack as “a shocking and violent” incident and confirmed that the investigation is making good progress in identifying those responsible.
This disturbing incident is reminiscent of another tragic case in which a 16-year-old transgender girl was stabbed to death by two 15-year-olds in a park near her home in Birchwood, Warrington, UK. The recent sentencing of the perpetrators to life in prison with the possibility of parole after two decades has brought attention to the ongoing violence against the transgender community.
The attack on the 18-year-old in London serves as a stark reminder of the persistent threats and violence faced by transgender individuals, highlighting the urgent need for greater protection and support for the community.