Boston Man Charged with Assaulting Transgender Woman on Train in Hate-Fueled Attack

A man from Boston, accused of violently assaulting a transgender woman during an incident on a train last month, has been formally charged with assault and other related offenses, as confirmed by officials. The victim, a 41-year-old transgender woman whose identity remains undisclosed, reported the incident to transit police, detailing the harrowing experience she endured at the Maverick train station on Halloween, according to a news release from the Suffolk County District Attorney's Office.

The Assault and Its Aftermath

The victim disclosed that she was verbally and physically assaulted by the suspect, identified as Gregory Burnett, who allegedly shouted derogatory terms at her, including, "you’re not a woman, you’re a man," before physically attacking her. The woman stated that she attempted to defend herself, but Burnett proceeded to grab her foot by the heel, pulling her leg and causing her to fall, resulting in a wrist fracture. She expressed to transit police her belief that she was targeted due to her gender identity.

"We will never tolerate anyone being subjected to abuse — much less physical attack — for their sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression," stated District Attorney Kevin Hayden. He further emphasized that all residents and visitors have the fundamental right and expectation to travel on public transportation without fear for their safety.

Incident Details and Arrest

The violent attack occurred when the Blue Line train was stationary, with its doors open. As per official reports, Burnett boarded the train and, upon approaching the victim, began hurling derogatory remarks before physically assaulting her. Other passengers had to intervene to aid the victim and restrain Burnett, as stated by the district attorney's office. Through witness descriptions and surveillance video, the police identified Burnett, 53, as the perpetrator. He was apprehended on November 12 and subsequently charged with multiple offenses, including assault and battery causing serious bodily injury, assault and battery, assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, and civil rights violation with injury.

As the case continues to unfold, it remains uncertain whether the accused has retained legal counsel to represent him in the proceedings.