Man Wanted For Murder Of Transgender Person In Philadelphia

PHILADELPHIA — Authorities in Philadelphia are asking for help finding a man accused of killing and mutilating the body of a transgender woman.

According to the Philadelphia District Attorney's Office, Charles Mitchell, 40, is wanted in connection with the death of Mar’Quis “MJ” Jackson.

Jackson was killed on Dec. 14, 2022.

Authorities said Mitchell will be charged with murder, abuse of a corpse, and tampering with evidence.

Mitchell is a Black male, standing 6 feet 3 inches tall and weighing 200 lbs. His last known address was on the 1800 block of Brunner Street.

Anyone with information on Mitchell's whereabouts is asked to call 911 or the Philadelphia Police tip line at 2150686-8477.

Jackson’s sister, Markiya, and other loved ones urged members of the public who have information that could lead to Mitchell’s arrest and prosecution to contact Philadelphia Police during a news conference Wednesday.

Jackson was found dead at 4:16 p.m. Dec. 14, 2022 on the 1800 block of Brunner Street.

The Medical Examiner’s Office ruled Jackson's manner of death homicide and reported that they suffered multiple blunt force traumas to the head.

Jackson also had scrapes, cuts, and bruises to the hands and legs.

Homicide investigators eventually identified Mitchell as an individual likely to be responsible for Jackson’s death.

"Our partners at the Philadelphia Police Homicide Unit work around the clock to identify and apprehend those who inflict grievous harm on our families and communities," Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner said. "If you have truthful information that could help police locate Charles Mitchell so that he can be held accountable for his alleged actions, please call 911 or the PPD tip line, 215-686-TIPS (8477)."

Family members of Shahere “Diamond” Jackson-McDonald, whose homicide was reported on November 24, 2022, also urged members of the public to contact Philadelphia Police with information that could help identify the individuals responsible and bring them to justice.

Jackson and Jackson-McDonald (no relation) were among at least 37 trans and gender non-conforming people killed in fatal violence in the United States in 2022, according to the Human Rights Campaign.

At least five trans and gender non-conforming people were reported killed last year in Pennsylvania, which offers no statutory protection for LGBTQ+ persons against housing, employment, and other discrimination.