Lilith
Lilith, a transgender woman, died in November 2025 while held at Red Onion State Prison in Wise County, Virginia. The Virginia Department of Health determined the cause of death was asphyxia due to chest compression and the state ruled it a homicide. A prisoners' family group says that during a lockdown officers fired less-lethal rounds, used a taser and chemical irritants, and that an officer sat on her chest. No charges have been announced, and the Department of Corrections has referred its completed investigation to a prosecutor, while a proposed $2.7 million wrongful death settlement is awaiting court approval.
Cause of death, as reported: Killed by staff (disputed). The Virginia Department of Health ruled the death a homicide from asphyxia due to chest compression, and a prisoners' family group says officers fired less-lethal rounds, used a taser and chemical irritants, and an officer sat on her chest during a lockdown, while the family has a proposed $2.7 million wrongful death settlement awaiting court approval.
Reported by: Virginia Department of Health (medical examiner or coroner); prisoners' family group (family or their lawyers).
Lawsuit: Her family has proposed a $2.7 million wrongful death settlement, which is awaiting court approval.