Edward Thomas, a 29-year-old man from Dallas, Texas, has been identified as one of the attackers who brutally beat transgender woman Muhlaysia Booker outside of the Royal Crest Apartments in Dallas. Booker was treated in the hospital for injuries suffered during the attack which included facial fractures and a broken wrist, according to WFAA.
Thomas was the man wearing a white shirt who was seen punching Booker multiple times in the video that went viral on social media.
The incident occurred following a minor traffic accident.
Thomas was charged with Aggravated Assault Causing Serious Bodily Injury, which is a second-degree felony that carries a punishment of two to 20 years behind bars, according to state law.
Here is the brutal attack:
WARNING: Graphic content that some may find disturbing.
Mayor Mike Rawlings issued a statement on the filmed attack, via Facebook.
Chief Hall alerted me this morning to the assault at the Royal Crest Apartments and I have seen a video of what happened. I am extremely angry about what appears to be mob violence against this woman. I am in contact with the chief and she assured me that the Dallas Police Department is fully investigating, including the possibility that this was a hate crime. Those who did this do not represent how Dallasites feel about our thriving LGBTQ community. We will not stand for this kind of behavior.
Since being released from the hospital, Booker shared a statement on social media that reads: “It’s a blessing being lucky enough to witness the love and respect I’m getting and thank you to all my genuine friends that been with me through this journey and knowing the real me knowing nobody deserves that.”
Once the news of her assault went viral, a GoFundMe campaign was started to assist with Booker’s medical bills.
Att the time of this posting, nearly $500 has been raised.
