The rise of hate attacks toward trans people has been increasing in the U.S. recently. Unfortunately, one similar incident also happened to Gigi Gandy. The Los Angeles trans woman was just minding her own business when she visited the Arco gas station in California. It was during this moment that she encountered a very angry man. She noticed him through her rearview mirror. Though she hadn’t yet gotten her gas, she remained in her car, afraid to get out because of the unknown man. He then pulled in front of her car and began conversing with another man.
During their conversation, they kept laughing while glancing in the trans woman’s direction. He wasn’t done yet. After making a U-turn, he gave the woman the middle finger. Not willing to just be a doormat, Gandy gave him one back, which really angered the man. Fueled by his rage, he stepped out of his car and began stabbing one of her tires. Gandy quickly pulled out her phone to record the incident. Despite being recorded, he still said that she was lucky he didn’t stab her too. Though she wasn’t physically hurt, the trans woman said she was traumatized by the event. Even now, the man’s threat still hangs over her.
Gandy said that she wasn’t sure why the man was so aggressive toward her. However, she suspected that it might be because she is a trans woman. Unfortunately, nobody knows the identity of the man. The woman, who is still fearing for her life, has reported the incident to the Los Angeles Police Department.
Recently, a Redditor claiming to be Gandy’s friend has been sharing the video recording on social media. They hope someone will be able to identify the man who threatened Gandy. They’re asking anyone with information to contact the LAPD or submit an anonymous tip.
Many internet users who saw the post condemned the man for his hateful actions. They expressed disbelief that someone could have so little self-control that they’d resort to threats of violence over a simple gesture. “What a loser… being that enraged at someone else for simply existing,” one Redditor commented.
Unfortunately, not many people are as supportive on YouTube. While many Redditors are siding with Gandy, some YouTube commenters are attacking her for being a trans woman and misgendering her. “The comments on the video are also gross and disheartening. Sending positive vibes to your friend, OP,” one Redditor said.