Transgender Star Koko Da Doll Shot and Killed in Atlanta, Director Blames Trans Violence

The recent death of Rasheeda Williams, also known as Koko Da Doll, has left many in mourning and has shed light on the ongoing issue of violence against Black transgender women.

Williams was shot and killed in Atlanta on Tuesday night, according to the director of the documentary “Kokomo City,” in which Williams was featured as one of the subjects.

“Kokomo City” was a moving and award-winning documentary that premiered at Sundance Film Festival earlier this year. It followed Black transgender sex workers, including Williams, who lived and worked in New York and Atlanta, accurately portraying the daily threats and violence they faced.

Atlanta Police Department responded to reports of a shooting just before 11 PM on the night of Williams’ death. Investigators found a woman shot and pronounced dead at the scene.

Homicide investigators are currently working to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Director D. Smith and co-star Daniella Carter paid tribute to Rasheeda Williams, highlighting her inspiring story and impact on those around her.

The Sundance Film Festival Twitter official account also paid tribute to Williams. They tweeted,

“We are saddened to hear about the death of Rasheeda Williams aka Koko Da Doll. We were honored to have her at the Festival this year with KOKOMO CITY, where she reminded Black trans women. We can do anything, we can be whatever we want to be. It is a tragic loss.”

Williams’ death is a tragic reminder of the ongoing violence and discrimination faced by Black transgender women.

According to the Human Rights Campaign, at least 44 transgender or gender non-conforming people were violently killed in the United States in 2020, with the majority being Black transgender women.

Therefore, it is crucial to continue raising awareness about this issue and taking action to support and protect the Black transgender community.