Torres, potentially headed to the House of Representatives after winning the Democratic primary, wrote on Monday that society must do better protecting the lives of members of the trans community.

“The body of a trans woman, 23, was found dead on Orchard Beach right here in the Bronx. We continue to live in a society that brutally devalues trans lives, often with murderous consequences. All of us must do our part in fighting institutional transphobia,” Torres tweeted.

The body of a trans woman, 23, was found dead on Orchard Beach right here in the Bronx. We continue to live in a society that brutally devalues trans lives, often with murderous consequences. All of us must do our part in fighting institutional transphobia. https://t.co/tTDk3l9tXo

— Ritchie Torres (@RitchieTorres) August 31, 2020

If Che’s death is ruled a homicide, it would be at least the 27th killing of a transgender person this year, according to the Human Rights Campaign.

Blavity previously reported on a deadly two-week stretch in July where at least five transgender women were killed.

The body of 32-year-old Shakie Peters was found in Louisiana on July 1 and nearby in Baton Rouge, Draya McCarty was found dead on July 4 but police have yet to determine if there are any connecting elements.

Bree Black, 27, was found shot to death in Pompano Beach, Florida on July 3.

In Texas, 22-year-old Merci Mack was found shot to death in a parking lot on June 30, the last day of Pride Month.

To support organizations advocating for Black trans lives, click here.

Elie-Che

Get relevant content delivered to you once a week