Murder of Los Angeles Trans Woman Cherry Bush, 48 Officially a Hate Crime
Cherry Bush was 48 years old, She was homeless, living in Sylmar a suburban neighborhood in the San Fernando Valley and is the northernmost neighborhood within the City of Los Angeles. On July 5, a 29-year-old man shot her after making disparaging comments based on her perceived gender identity (and sexual orientation.) She died the next day in the hospital.
The suspected shooter has been arrested and charged with one count each of murder and attempted murder, with a hate crime allegation, according to LA County District Attorney. The hate crime charges came almost two weeks after the shooting. Original media reporting repeatedly deadnamed and misgendered Cherry, describing her repeatedly as a ‘man in a dress” even while describing the hate crime charges.
We do not know many details about Cherry’s life right now. Her brother, Bob Bush, shared on Instagram:
“To my oldest friend, [sibling], and the ultimate anti-hero. I love you [ ] and I miss you.”
Cherry has a backstory. Photos shared by her brother on Instagram hint at a childhood with typical experiences, toys, activities, adventures, and family moments. Finding out why she was homeless may or may not be part of the narrative for us, but acknowledging that she was this whole person beyond one…
