Chicago Man Charged with Killing Transgender Girlfriend with Hammer

Prosecutors say Deandre Bell searched 'how to kill someone with a hammer' before the attack.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 6:40pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a hammer with dried blood on the metal head, creating a stark, gritty, investigative aesthetic without any text or identifying details.A recent wave of violent crimes against transgender individuals in Chicago exposes the need for greater protections and support.Chicago Today

A 24-year-old Chicago man has been charged with first-degree murder for allegedly beating his 31-year-old transgender girlfriend, Davonta Curtis, to death with a hammer. Prosecutors say Bell searched his phone for information on killing someone with a hammer before the attack.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing violence and discrimination faced by transgender individuals, particularly transgender women of color, who are disproportionately targeted for violent crimes. It also raises concerns about domestic violence within LGBTQ+ relationships.

The details

According to prosecutors, Bell and Curtis were together on Easter when the attack occurred late at night in Curtis' apartment. Surveillance footage shows Bell leaving the apartment at 1 AM the next day. Curtis' sister found his unclothed body partially covered with a sheet on April 8. Bell was later found driving Curtis' stolen car and admitted to hitting him in the head with a hammer, as well as taking his keys, phone, and money. Authorities found a hammer with blood on it in Bell's backpack.

  • On Easter, Bell and Curtis were together in Curtis' apartment.
  • At around 1 AM on April 8, surveillance footage shows Bell leaving Curtis' apartment.
  • Later on April 8, Curtis' sister found his body in the apartment.

The players

Deandre Bell

A 24-year-old Chicago resident who has been charged with first-degree murder for allegedly killing his transgender girlfriend, Davonta Curtis, with a hammer.

Davonta Curtis

A 31-year-old transgender woman who was allegedly killed by her boyfriend, Deandre Bell, with a hammer.

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What’s next

Bell is being held without bail and will face a judge to determine if he will be allowed out on bail pending trial.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the ongoing violence and discrimination that transgender individuals, especially transgender women of color, face in our society. It underscores the need for greater awareness, education, and support to protect vulnerable LGBTQ+ communities.