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Police Investigating Hate Crime Attack After Capitol Hill Fundraiser for Orlando Victims

Seattle police are working with the FBI as they investigate an attack on a transgender person, who was beaten late Wednesday on Capitol Hill after leaving a fundraiser for victims of the Orlando mass shooting.

The victim left the fundraiser around 11:30 PM and was walking near 11th Avenue and East Pike Street when the suspect approached the victim.

“Hey, Happy Pride,” the suspect said before punching the victim in the face. The suspect then grabbed the victim by the throat, continued his assault and used a transgender slur during the attack. The victim lost consciousness and the suspect fled the scene.

Upon regaining consciousness, the victim was able to drive home and contact a friend, who drove the victim to the hospital. On the way, they stopped and contacted police.

The FBI has offered its assistance to SPD Violent Crimes detectives investigating the case. An SPD victim advocate has also been in contact with the victim to provide support.

The suspect is described as a white male in his 20s, with brown hair and a partial beard. He was wearing an orange or copper-colored sweatshirt, blue jeans, and sandals at the time of the incident.

“I’m disgusted by this hateful attack,” said Seattle Police Chief Kathleen O’Toole. “I want to assure the victim and the community that the SPD will leverage every resource to identify the suspect and bring him to justice.”

If you have any information about this case, please call the SPD Violent Crimes tip line at (206)233-5000.

The Seattle Police Department and City of Seattle continue to work closely with organizers for this week’s Pride festival and will have an increased and visible presence at weekend events throughout downtown and Capitol Hill.