Transgender woman burned to death, murder investigated as a hate crime
The murder of a transgender woman who was burned to death in Florida is being investigated as a hate crime.
The remains were found behind a vehicle rental facility at 2807 Fowler Street in Fort Myers on Thursday. Authorities have identified the remains as those of Yaz’min Shancez , 31.
No arrests have been made in what authorities are calling a homicide.
Police say this is an active investigation and they are working aggressively with all leads and tips in order to solve the crime.
According to authorities, Owens’ body was found on Thursday at 7:56 am.
A witness said she heard screaming and yelling early in the morning.
Police say this is an isolated incident.
In addition to being burned to death, Owens had also been shot. Investigators are turning to surveillance cameras possessed by several warehouses surrounding the scene for clues.
Fort Myers Police Department is asking anyone with information that will aid their investigation to call them at 239-321-7700. Anyone with information is asked to call the Fort Myers Police Department at 239-321-7700 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-780-TIPS or text message C-R-I-M-E-S (274637) Keyword FMPD.
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