Suspect accused of killing trans woman Meghan Riley Lewis released with no bail

Source: The Advocate

Suspect accused of killing trans woman Meghan Riley Lewis released with no bail

Brian Delen allegedly misgendered and shot the trans activist and community leader while delivering her food. Local advocates are planing a protest after he was released without bail.

BY DONALD PADGETT
JANUARY 08 2024 2:35 PM EST

The Maryland man charged with shooting and killing Meghan Riley Lewis outside her apartment following a brief altercation last month was released on his own recognizance Friday, angering friends and the local community who have planned a rally for tomorrow.

Brian Delen, 47, was arrested and charged with the shooting death of Lewis, 57, on December 27 last year. He was charged with second-degree murder, first-degree assault, and a gun-related charge.

Delen was reportedly delivering food to Lewis, a transgender woman, when the pair got into a dispute after he allegedly misgendered her, according to court documents seen by local CBS affiliate WJZ-TV.

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Police say Delen drove off after the two exchanged heated words, but stopped while still in the apartment complex’s parking lot and exited the vehicle to confront Lewis who had followed him. The two argued and Delen reportedly shot Lewis in the torso.

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Read more: https://www.advocate.com/crime/meghan-riley-lewis-suspect-released