A man allegedly burned two lesbian couples, resulting in one death, in a possible hate crime that authorities have deemed “abhorrent.”
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A brutal assault on four women at a boarding house in Buenos Aires has shaken the nation, resulting in one death and three injured victims fighting for their lives. The attack, whose motive remains unclear, has caused outrage and demands for justice from the Argentine LGBT community as the victims were two lesbian couples.
The Buenos Aires Herald reports that one of the victims, Pamela Cobas, tragically lost her life while the others sustained severe injuries and were hospitalized for treatment. One woman is in critical condition with burns on 90% of her body, another is on respiratory assistance, and the third is recovering but unable to provide details about the attack.
The suspect, a 62-year-old man, was arrested and taken to the hospital for a self-inflicted neck wound before being placed in police custody for further investigation. Evidence found at the scene, such as burned rags soaked in flammable liquid, suggests a premeditated and malicious intention behind the attack. In total, seven people were hospitalized due to injuries sustained during the incident.
The Argentine LGBT Federation has denounced the attack as a potential hate crime, citing the victims’ sexual orientation as a possible motive. In a statement, the Federation expressed concern about the escalation of violence and discrimination in Argentina, linking it to government policies that foster a culture of hate and intolerance.
The organization directly linked the attack on the four women to the planned closure of the National Institute Against Discrimination, Xenophobia, and Racism (INADI) by President Javier Milei’s administration. They argued that hate crimes are the result of a climate of violence fueled by discriminatory rhetoric sanctioned by government officials. With crucial resources like INADI at risk of closing, marginalized communities are left vulnerable without access to support and protection.
As investigations into the attack continue, the Argentine LGBT Federation has pledged to stand in solidarity with the victims and their families. They are dedicated to seeking justice for the targeted women and ensuring that the case is brought to court.
The tragic event in Buenos Aires is a somber reminder of the urgent need to address and combat all forms of hate crimes. Prioritizing the safety and well-being of marginalized communities is crucial, and measures must be taken to eradicate discrimination and violence from society. As Argentina grapples with the aftermath of this heinous attack, it is imperative that steps are taken to prevent similar atrocities from happening in the future.
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