A 61-year-old transgender woman in Los Angeles has been left traumatised and fearing for her life after being targeted in a series of violent assaults that police are now investigating as a hate crime.
Sabrina de la Peña, a long-time resident and shop owner in the Westlake neighbourhood, was lured into a local bar in April under false pretences. What began as a seemingly normal encounter quickly escalated into horror after a man made sexual advances toward her. When Sabrina declined and he discovered she was transgender, the situation turned violent.
According to authorities, the man attacked Sabrina inside the bar, sexually assaulting her before fleeing. But this initial act of violence was just the beginning of what would become a string of terrifying and escalating attacks.
In the days that followed, the same man returned with others. Together, they repeatedly targeted Sabrina in broad daylight. She was assaulted with a skateboard, sprayed with pepper spray, doused in unidentified liquids, and nearly shocked with a stun gun. Witnesses report that Sabrina was visibly shaken and terrified, yet the attackers showed no signs of stopping.
The Los Angeles Police Department has launched a full investigation, officially classifying the case as a hate crime. Investigators believe Sabrina was deliberately targeted because of her gender identity and fear the suspects may be responsible for other similar attacks. Surveillance images of the assailants have been released, and authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.
Sabrina, who has owned and operated a local convenience store for over three decades, says the assaults have left her in a constant state of fear. “I don’t feel safe anymore,” she said. “If these men aren’t stopped, they’re going to kill me.”
Her story has sparked widespread anger and concern across Los Angeles and beyond, particularly among LGBTQ+ advocacy groups. Many are calling this attack a stark reminder of the dangers faced daily by trans individuals, especially trans women of colour, who are at a higher risk of targeted violence.
“This wasn’t an isolated incident. It was calculated, cruel, and deeply disturbing,” one community activist said. “We must act now—not only to find those responsible, but to ensure trans people can live safely and openly without fear.”
The LAPD is continuing its investigation and is asking for the public’s help in identifying the suspects. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Rampart Division.
As the community rallies around Sabrina, her strength and resilience have become a symbol of resistance against hate. But her plea is simple: “I want justice. Not just for me, but for anyone who has ever been attacked for being who they are.”
Her voice joins a growing chorus demanding accountability, protection, and change—because no one should have to live in fear simply for being themselves.