Antash’a English, a 38-year-old Black transgender woman, was tragically killed on June 1, 2018, in Jacksonville, Florida. She was found between two houses suffering from a gunshot wound. Despite her critical condition, Antash’a managed to inform the police that the suspect was wearing a gray hoodie and left the scene in a gray four-door vehicle. She was taken to a hospital but unfortunately succumbed to her injuries.
Antash’a was well-known and loved in her community, particularly for her performances at InCahoots Night Club, where she had been a featured performer for ten years.
The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office launched an active murder investigation following her death. The initial reports from the Sheriff's Office misgendered and deadnamed Antash’a, which led to significant outcry from advocates and friends who knew her. They reached out to ensure accurate reporting and to honor her identity. The investigation revealed that Antash’a was fatally injured in a drive-by shooting in the early hours of the morning. She was found lying between two derelict homes and was shot multiple times by a person driving by in a gray car.
Antash’a’s death marked the 11th reported homicide of a transgender person in the United States in 2018. Her murder highlighted the ongoing violence faced by transgender individuals, particularly transgender women of color. Friends and loved ones remembered her as an unapologetic, bold, and loyal person. A candlelight vigil and balloon release were held in her honor, followed by a benefit show at InCahoots Night Club to aid her family with burial costs.
Despite the active investigation, no arrests have been made in connection with Antash’a English’s murder. The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office continues to seek information from the public to solve the case. The misgendering of Antash’a by law enforcement and media has been a point of contention, as it can lead to underreporting and misrepresentation of violence against transgender individuals. Advocates continue to push for justice and proper recognition of Antash’a’s identity and the circumstances surrounding her death.
