A tragic arson attack in the Barracas neighborhood of Buenos Aires, Argentina, resulted in the death of three lesbian women and left one survivor. Local LGBTQ groups condemn the attack as a hate crime, while critics point to growing hostility towards LGBTQ individuals in the country.
In the early hours of May 6, 2024, a tragic arson attack in the Barracas neighborhood of Buenos Aires, Argentina, resulted in the death of three lesbian women and left one survivor. Pamela Fabiana Cobas, Mercedes Roxana Figueroa, Andrea Amarante, and Sofía Castro Riglo were sharing a room in a boarding house when an unknown man broke in and threw an incendiary device, setting the room on fire. Pamela and Roxana died shortly after the attack, Andrea succumbed to her injuries on May 12, while Sofía survived thanks to Andrea’s protection.
Local LGBTQ advocacy groups have condemned the attack as a hate crime. Jake News has heard that authorities have detained a 62-year-old man from the building, but the incident is not being officially treated as a hate crime as the investigation continues. Critics argue that the attack reflects a growing hostility toward LGBTQ individuals under President Javier Milei’s administration, which has made controversial statements and rolled back protections for LGBTQ communities.
The attack has mobilized LGBTQ activists in Argentina, who plan to commemorate the victims and push for stronger protections against violence and discrimination. Surveys show significant public support for LGBTQ rights in Argentina, reinforcing activists’ calls for new policies to safeguard these communities.