Thomas Robinson, a 28-year-old Black gender nonconforming individual, was fatally shot on August 17, 2023, in Calumet City, Illinois. The incident occurred in the 300 block of Paxton Avenue, where Calumet City police responded to a ShotSpotter alert at 11:45 p.m. and received a 911 call reporting a gunshot victim in the same area.
Upon arrival, officers found two individuals suffering from gunshot wounds: a 25-year-old and Thomas Robinson, who was 28 years old. Despite life-saving measures, Thomas was pronounced dead at the scene. The 25-year-old victim was transported to an area hospital in critical condition.
Thomas Robinson was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois, and had relocated to East Chicago, Indiana. He graduated from Thornridge High School in 2013 and was working as a cook at a local IHOP at the time of his death. Thomas was known for his creativity, frequently changing his hairstyle and color, and sharing his artistry through online photos.
The shooting is believed to have been targeting someone else, with Thomas being an unintended victim. The investigation is being conducted by detectives from Calumet City and the South Suburban Major Crimes Task Force. As of the latest reports, there are no updates on the investigation or any arrests related to the case.
Thomas's death has been recognized as part of a larger pattern of violence against transgender and gender nonconforming individuals. He was the 17th such person to die violently in 2023, and the 11th Black person within this group to be reported in the United States that year.
In the aftermath of his death, friends and community members have been grieving and remembering Thomas for his positive impact, describing him as a source of smiles and laughter. There have been crowdfunds set up to cover his final expenses, and his memory has been honored through various tributes.
