Malte, a 25-year old trans man died of injuries he sustained from being physically assaulted at a gay pride event in the city of Muenster in western Germany. While prosecutors announced his death today, the deadly attack took place on Aug. 27 after Malte stepped in to help other participants that were being insulted by an unknown man. The man responded by attacking Malte and knocking him to the ground.
German authorities have said that the suspect escaped after the attack and they have been unable to identify him. The German government’s queer commissioner, Sven Lehmann, has called the killing a hate crime. “Malte has died following a hate attack at the CSD Muenster,” the commissioner said on Twitter. “I’m stunned and sad. My condolences and deep sympathy go to his family and friends. Violence against queer people is a threat that we must all stand up to.”
Local police have released a description of the man hoping that witnesses or others with information will step forward. The suspect reportedly fled with another person after attacking Malte who had stepped in to defend other attendees that were being insulted by the suspect. Malte passed away from his injuries Friday morning, 6 days after being assaulted at the gay pride rally.