A woman has been apprehended on suspicion of attempted murder following a harrowing and violent assault on a trans teenager in London.
The victim, an 18-year-old trans woman, was urgently transported to the hospital after authorities responded to an incident on Masons Avenue in Wealdstone, northwest London, around 7 pm GMT on Saturday, February 10th.
Summer Betts-Ramsey, 19, has been charged with attempted murder and possession of an offensive weapon in public. She will be held in custody until March 12th, when a plea hearing is scheduled at the Old Bailey, according to the London Evening Standard.
Willesden Magistrates Court was informed on Tuesday, February 13th, that the victim had planned to attend a roller-skating party with friends at Harrow Leisure Centre on the day of the alleged attack.
Reportedly, she was assaulted by a group and subjected to transphobic slurs before sustaining 14 stab wounds. Following medical treatment, she was discharged from the hospital.
Four individuals have been arrested in connection with the incident.
Detective Inspector Nicola Hannant, leading the investigation, stated, “This was a shocking and violent attack, and we continue to offer support to the victim and her family as she recuperates from her injuries.”
“We have already detained four individuals; however, we urge anyone who may have been in the vicinity or has pertinent information to come forward and cooperate with us.”
“We have increased police presence in the area and encourage individuals to approach these officers with any information or concerns.”
The assault occurred just before a vigil commemorating the one-year anniversary of Brianna Ghey’s murder, which took place over the weekend. Ghey, a trans teenager, was fatally stabbed in Warrington last February by two teenagers, Scarlett Jenkinson and Eddie Ratcliffe, both of whom received life sentences earlier this month.
Laura Mackay, CEO of LGBTQ+ youth charity Just Like Us, expressed dismay over the recent attack, emphasizing that no one should endure fear for their safety due to their LGBTQ+ identity.
“Mere one year after Brianna Ghey’s tragic murder, we still witness anti-trans sentiments in various forms,” Mackay stated. “It is evident that transphobia, regardless of its manifestation or scale, contributes to devastating hate crimes.”
“Trans youth deserve safety in all aspects of their lives, whether at home, in school, or while enjoying recreational activities with friends. The cycle of violence must end.”
Individuals with information regarding the incident are urged to contact authorities at 101, quoting reference 6306/10Feb, or reach out to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
