Transgender woman killed in East Hollywood shooting

EAST HOLLYWOOD, LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- A transgender woman was shot and killed early Thursday morning in East Hollywood.

The shooting occurred at around 2:30 a.m. on the 600 block of North Kenmore Avenue. The victim was rushed to an area hospital in critical condition. Officials confirmed her death at approximately 5:30 a.m.

Los Angeles police say the incident appeared to be a botched robbery attempt, and the victim was likely not targeted due to her transgender status.

"During the robbery, there was a struggle, and there were shots fired, and the victim was struck one time. It appears they were struck in the head," said LAPD Lt. Joe Losorelli.

News of the fatal shooting sent shock waves through the transgender community.

"It's really, really frightening for all of us, especially out here in the streets and stuff because discrimination is still very high in our community," Karina Samala of the Transgender Advisory Board of West Hollywood said.

No arrests have been made. Investigators are looking for two or three male Hispanic suspects. Additional descriptions of the suspects were not immediately available. Investigators believe the suspects fled the scene on foot.

Authorities are talking to witnesses and reviewing surveillance footage, hoping to get more information. The victim's identity was not immediately released.

Kenmore and Melrose avenues were completely shut as police conducted their investigation.

If you have any information about this incident, you're urged to contact the Los Angeles Police Department's Rampart Division.