Seattle police have arrested a 39-year-old man in connection with a violent hate crime attack against a transgender woman in the University District on Thursday evening.
The assault occurred around 6 p.m. on the 4700 block of University Way Northeast. According to the Seattle Police Department (SPD), the victim was walking home from work when she was harassed by a group of men shouting anti-transgender slurs, including “drag queen” and “take your makeup off.”
When the woman attempted to photograph the group, she was violently attacked—punched in the face, knocked to the ground, and kicked repeatedly. Despite her injuries, she managed to escape and took shelter in a nearby business, where she called 911.
Victim Sustains Serious Injuries
Seattle Fire personnel evaluated the woman’s injuries on-site. According to court documents, she suffered:
- A bruised and swollen eye
- Broken teeth
- Scrapes on her hands
- Abdominal pain
Witnesses at the scene remained to assist police, providing crucial descriptions of the suspects and a vehicle linked to the crime. The victim also captured a photo of the back of one assailant and their vehicle as they fled.
Suspect Arrested, Ties to Prior Hate Crime Case
Through the investigation, officers identified Andre Phillip Karlow, 39, as one of the attackers. He was located entering a residence, and after surrounding the area, officers made the arrest without incident.
Karlow is now facing charges of second-degree assault and hate crime felony charges. His bail has been set at $200,000.
According to public records, Karlow has an extensive criminal history, including 30 prior arrests, 13 of which were for felonies. He is also the subject of a separate ongoing hate crime case from September 2024, involving an assault on a Sound Transit fare enforcement officer.
Community Reaction and Support for the Victim
Mike McDaniel, the victim’s friend and co-worker, spoke out in support.
“She’s a Navy veteran with a heart of gold,” McDaniel said. “It’s heartbreaking that someone so kind was hurt like this. These people just kind of showed up—they aren’t our regular folks from around the Ave.”
McDaniel plans to attend court hearings to ensure community voices are heard.
“The judge needs to hear from the community on this,” he said. “People like this can’t be slapped on the wrist and released into the public once again.”
Mayor Harrell Announces Protections Ahead of Trans Day of Visibility
The attack comes just days before Transgender Day of Visibility on March 31. In response to rising violence and political hostility against trans communities, Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell is set to sign new legislation that protects access to gender-affirming and reproductive health care in the city.
“This legislation is a tangible step to strengthen local protections and stand with our LGBTQ+ community,” Harrell stated. “We will continue to fight to protect people’s right to live freely as their authentic selves.”
The new law extends Washington’s Shield Law, ensuring that Seattle courts cannot be used to enforce out-of-state laws criminalizing or restricting health care that remains legal in Washington.
The Bottom Line
The Seattle Police Department believes additional suspects remain at large. The other attackers are described as possibly college-aged Hispanic men, and one reportedly shouted “Semper Fi” during the assault. When the victim disclosed she was also a veteran, one suspect referenced Donald Trump’s ban on transgender military service.
The case is now under investigation by the SPD Bias Crimes Unit.
If you have any information, video footage, or images related to this incident, please contact SPD:
Tip Line: 206-233-5000
Email: SPD_hatecrime@seattle.gov
If you or someone you know is experiencing violence or discrimination, contact the Trans Lifeline at 877-565-8860.
