The tragic death of River Nevaeh Goddard, a non-binary teenager, has shocked the community after their body was discovered in Stow, Massachusetts. The 17-year-old had been reported missing since the age of 15, and their untimely demise has raised questions and concerns about the safety and well-being of LGBTQ+ youth.
According to reports, River Nevaeh Goddard’s body was found by the police during a welfare check at the home of her boyfriend, Shane Curry. The authorities faced resistance from Curry, who blocked access to the property for over two hours before Goddard’s body was found. Curry, 20, has since been arrested and charged with assault and battery on a household or family member, as well as assault and battery causing serious bodily injury. He pleaded not guilty to these charges at Concord District Court.
Court documents revealed that Curry had been diagnosed with schizophrenia in 2020, shedding light on the complexities surrounding the case. Goddard, who identified as pansexual and used both she/her and they/them pronouns, had gone missing in April 2022, sparking a widespread search and concern for their well-being.
Family members, including Michael Simmons, River Nevaeh Goddard’s grandfather, expressed their shock and sorrow at the tragic turn of events. Simmons described Goddard as a soulful and spiritual individual who had endured a challenging upbringing, including time spent in foster care and running away from guardians in Rhode Island. The family’s grief was palpable as they grappled with the loss of a beloved member.
The LGBTQ+ community has been deeply affected by Goddard’s death, with GLAAD president Sarah Kate Ellis expressing heartbreak and calling for greater protection of LGBTQ+ youth. The incident has also highlighted the ongoing dangers faced by transgender individuals, with Pittsburgh Lesbian Correspondents noting Goddard as the 12th trans person to lose their life in 2024.
As the investigation into River Nevaeh Goddard’s death continues, there is a growing call for accountability and justice to ensure that such tragedies are not repeated. The community mourns the loss of a vibrant young person whose life was cut short, and there is a renewed urgency to create a safer and more inclusive environment for all individuals, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation..
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