Stephanie Montez, a 47-year-old transgender woman known for her vibrant personality and love of dancing, was found shot and killed near Robstown, Texas, on October 21, 2017. Her body was discovered with multiple gunshot wounds, and the Nueces County Sheriff’s Office opened an investigation into her murder.

Initial reports misgendered Montez, and it took several days for local transgender advocates to raise awareness about her identity. No immediate arrests were announced at the time and her longtime friend Brittany Ramirez described her as one of the sweetest people she had ever met and very supportive.

Montez’s death galvanized members of the transgender community and advocates called for changes to include gender identity in Texas hate crime and anti-discrimination laws.