Jaida Peterson was a 29-year-old Black transgender woman who was fatally shot on April 4, 2021, in Charlotte, North Carolina. She was found in a room at the Quality Inn on Queen City Drive, and the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department ruled her death a homicide.

Investigators say two men were arrested and charged in connection with Jaida Peterson’s death and the killing of another Black transgender woman, Remy Fennell. Dontarius Long, 21, and Joel Brewer, 33, were charged with two counts of murder, two counts of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, robbery with a dangerous weapon, and conspiracy to commit robbery with a dangerous weapon. Police reported both victims were engaged in sex work and were shot in hotel rooms; authorities believe the two men traveled from Union County together. The FBI is assisting and police said they are investigating whether hate crime charges apply.

Peterson’s death prompted a vigil and public calls for justice from family, friends, and advocates, and drew attention to violence against transgender and gender non-conforming people and gaps in state protections.

If anyone knew Jaida or has information about what happened that night, please come forward to Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police.