JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Friends and loved-ones gathered Thursday night to honor a 38-year-old transgender woman who died after she was found shot between two abandoned homes in Northwest Jacksonville.
A candlelight vigil was held at Sidney J. Gefen Riverwalk Park for Antonia Antwon English, who identified herself as Antash'a Devine Sherrington English. Loved ones believe her death was a hate crime.
"I know there's a higher power and that person will have to answer to, and mercy on their soul," said Kloe Kinsington, English's friend.
Balloons were released into the air in English's memory. Her friends said she was a larger-than-life personality.
"There was a kindred spirit. A sweet, sweet spirit about Antash'a that allowed her to root for the underdog," said David Harrell, who organized the vigil.
English was found between two houses on Ella Street at 3:55 a.m. Friday. No arrests have been made in her death and her friends are pushing for answers.
"We’re not going to be silent. Those of the transgender and LGBTQ community as a whole - we are not going to take killing lying down," Harrell said.
English's friends and loved ones are raising money to help with funeral costs. They've created a fundraising site for donations.
The Jacksonville Sheriff's Office is asking the public for information about English's killer. Anyone with information can call JSO at (904) 630-0500 or email JSOCrimeTips@JaxSheriff.org. To remain anonymous and be eligible for a cash reward, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-866-845-TIPS.