NCAVP mourns the death of Vongell Lugo, a 36 year-old gay man in Washington, D.C.

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The In Memoriam Page is the complete listing.

NCAVP mourns the death of Vongell Lugo, a 36 year-old gay man who is the first reported LGBTQ homicide linked to intimate partner violence in 2019.  According to media reports, Vongell was stabbed to death in his home by his partner, U.S. Navy Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class Collin J. Potter, 26, who was arrested and has been charged by the U.S. Attorney with second degree murder.

Vongell was a successful retail executive, who is described as “a kind soul, the center of the party, and a beacon of light that made an impact on everyone he came into contact with,” on Caring Bridge, which also has information on events to commemorate Vongell’s life, mourn his passing, and contribute to expenses.  Events included a candlelight vigil on Friday, January 11th, a viewing on Sunday, January 13th, and funeral services Monday, January 14th.

NCAVP’s latest report, issued earlier this week, Hate Violence and Intimate Partner Violence in LGBTQ and HIV-affected Communities in 2017 highlights the LGBTQ people’s risk for severe and fatal intimate partner violence, as well as hate violence.

We know it can be hard to read these reports of violence against and within our communities. If you need support in these difficult times, you can always reach out to your local NCAVP member. If you or someone you know is experiencing violence, you can reach our free bilingual national hotline at 212-714-1141 or report online for support.

NCAVP works to prevent, respond to, and end all forms of violence against and within lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (LGBTQ) and HIV-affected communities. NCAVP is a national coalition of local member programs and affiliate organizations who create systemic and social change. NCAVP is a program of the New York City Anti-Violence Project.