Black Trans Man Tee Arnold Killed in Florida

Tee Arnold, a Black Trans man, passed away on April 7, four days after he was shot in Florida.

Tee Arnold, also known as Lagend Billions to his family, was shot around 1:30 a.m. on April 3 near a shopping center in Hallandale, Florida. On April 7, he passed away from his injuries at 36 years old.

After the tragedy, Tee Arnold’s loved ones commemorate his “greatness, laughter, and good energy.” Njbconthemove writes in an Instagram caption, “His passing is not just a personal loss but a painful reminder of the alarming increasing in fatal attacks targeting our Black Transgender brothers.”

Police claim the shooting was an “isolated incident” as opposed to a hate crime. They have since identified a woman who knew Arnold as a suspect. However, Arnold posted to Facebook just 24 hours before the shooting saying “Someone has a price on (his head).”

This tragedy comes after the signing of six pieces of anti-trans legislation in Florida. Bills signed by Governor DeSantis include a ban on sexual orientation or gender identity education until 8th grade, an anti-trans bathroom bill, an anti-gender affirmation care bill, and a license to discriminate in healthcare. These bills and anti-trans rhetoric lead to a hostile environment that can be a catalyst for senseless tragedy such as the death of Tee Arnold. 

At least eight transgender people have been victims of fatal violence in 2024 in the United States, 75% of whom were people of color.

Victoria Kirby York, director of public policy and programs at the National Black Justice Coalition, speaks on Arnlod’s death in a press release obtained by The Advocate, saying, “We also cannot ignore that this murder occurred in Florida, a state that has been leading the charge in anti-trans legislation and rhetoric. Similarly, we cannot forget that, more often than not, requests for law enforcement protection from Black LGBTQ+/SGL people are not provided even though we face disproportionate hate-driven violence.” 

Graphic courtesy of social media