Transgender woman dies after weekend attack in Harlem

Islan Nettles, a 21-year-old transgender woman attacked in Harlem, N.Y., over the weekend, has died, according to The New York City Anti-Violence Project.

Nettles, according to the AVP, was out with a group of friends on Aug. 17 when a group of men began throwing punches and yelling anti-gay and anti-transgender slurs.

The incident occurred at about West 148th Street and 8th Avenue.

Nettles was taken to Harlem Hospital, where, on Aug. 22, she was declared brain dead and was taken off life-support equipment.

The New York City Police Department has made one arrest in connection with the attack and investigations continue by the NYPD Hate Crimes Task Force and the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office, as well as monitoring by the AVP.

The AVP is organizing a vigil for the evening of Aug. 26.

On Aug. 23, after learning of Nettles’ death, the Human Rights Campaign, the nation’s largest LGBT civil rights group, issued a statement condemning “this horrendous act of violence” and calling on the NYPD to swiftly bring the perpetrators to justice.”

HRC said, “We send our deepest condolences to Ms. Nettles’ family, friends and loved ones and encourage those in NY area to join the AVP for the vigil Monday honoring her life.”