Slaying of transgender woman in Hollywood prompts request for information

Authorities are seeking the public’s help in identifying a man who shot and killed a transgender woman in Hollywood late Friday and who may also be responsible for the attempted armed robbery of a transgender woman in West Hollywood less than an hour later.

The shooting victim, Nathan Henry Vickers, 32, was found lying unconscious near Lexington Avenue and Gower Street at 9:58 p.m. According to the Los Angeles Police Department, the victim had suffered a gunshot wound to the chest and was pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics. The suspect apparently ran away after the shooting, and the motive for the slaying remains unknown, police said.

Vickers was also known as “Cassidy,” according to area residents.

The shooting was followed by the attempted armed robbery of a transgender woman at Plummer Park in West Hollywood at 10:35 p.m., according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, which provides law enforcement services for the city. The department described the robbery suspect as a black male, 5 feet, 8 inches tall, weighing 240 pounds and wearing a black hat and black clothing.

Anyone with information regarding the crime is encouraged to contact Hollywood homicide Det. Vinton or Officer Goodkin at (213) 972-2910 during business hours. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (1-877-527-3247).

-- Sam Quinones