‘Stomped and beat’: Gloucester teen believes he was attacked for being transgender

GLOUCESTER, Mass — A detective trained in civil rights investigations has been assigned to lead a case involving a 16-year-old transgender boy who was attacked in Gloucester.

Jayden Tkaczyk said teens he’s known for years are responsible for the beatdown that left him with fractures and nerve damage.

It happened Friday night during a party in a wooded area known as Dogtown.

The high school junior was transported to the emergency room after police were called.

“One second, I was having fun. The next minute, I was on the ground getting my face stomped and beat,” said Tkaczyk.

Tkaczyk said he’s dealt with bullying for years for being trans.

He believes that played a part in why he was targeted.

“They were saying the f slur over and over and over as they were punching me and stomping me,” he recalled.

The teen’s parents said comments justifying the attack on social media have added to their pain.

“This has always been my worst fear as a mom of a trans teen,” said Jasmine Tkaczyk. “A lot of them are proud of what they did, and it’s wrong.”

Gloucester Police Chief Edward Conley said there’s only so much he can discuss about the case because it involves minors.

He assured the public that there will be an impartial investigation.

Gloucester’s superintendent said the district is committed to offering support and resources for students and families.

“Our goal is to make sure every student feels secure and valued,” said Gloucester Superintendent Ben Lummis.

An attorney representing Tkaczyk told Boston 25 News that this incident is undoubtedly a hate crime in his opinion.

“To all those responsible, shame on you,” said attorney Craig Rourke. “You will be held accountable.”This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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