Man arrested in July shooting of transgender woman Dream Johnson

Months after the tragic death of 28-year-old Dream Johnson, a transgender woman from Washington D.C. , her family is finally seeing progress.

Details: transgender woman Dream Johnson killed

Authorities announced this week that U.S. Marshals arrested 38-year-old Edgar Arrington in Rowan County, North Carolina. He is charged with first-degree murder while armed and premeditated.

Johnson was shot and killed in July. Her death sparked grief and outrage across the LGBTQ+ community and beyond. Since then, her family has leaned on public support to navigate the emotional and financial toll.

GoFundMe campaign created to honor her legacy

A GoFundMe campaign launched shortly after her death has raised thousands of dollars to help cover memorial and burial expenses. The fundraiser describes Dream as “a radiant spirit filled with love, laughter, and the courage to live authentically.” It calls her death “a tragic act of violence” and urges the public to “say her name: Dream.”

“Dream was not just a name,” the campaign reads. “She embodied the journey of living one’s truth unapologetically.”

Organizers say no family should bear the burden of funeral costs while grieving such a profound loss. They’ve asked for continued support to ensure Dream is laid to rest with dignity and love. Contributions, they note, will help her family heal and remind the world that everyone deserves safety, respect, and freedom.

Dream Johnson’s killing is not being investigated as a hate crime

Although police confirmed the arrest, the Metropolitan Police Department stated the case is not being investigated as a hate crime. Investigators have not released a motive. However, Johnson’s family believes her gender identity played a role in the shooting.

“She was transgender,” a relative emphasized. “We believe that’s why she was targeted.”

Despite the department’s stance, Johnson’s loved ones continue to push for recognition of the crime’s potential bias. They say the lack of a hate crime designation ignores the broader risks faced by transgender individuals.

Arrington remains in custody as legal proceedings begin. The community awaits further updates while continuing to honor Johnson’s life and legacy.