Remembering Dustin Parker

On January 1, 2020, Dustin Parker, a 25-year-old transgender man from McAlester, OK, was working as a cab driver. His life was taken when someone murdered him as he worked to make a living. His murder has remained unsolved until now.

Parker was involved in his community. He volunteered and was a founding member of the McAlester chapter of Oklahomans for Equality. He was the first transgender person murdered in 2020.

From the OSBI: On March 23, 2026, a man turned himself in to McAlester police and admitted to a murder that happened six years ago. Police say Deraje Jackson admitted to killing 25-year-old Dustin Parker on New Year’s Day 2020. Parker, a husband and father of four, was working as a taxi driver when he was shot multiple times.

Statement from Oklahomans for Equality: “We remember Dustin Parker, a 25-year-old transgender man from McAlester whose life mattered deeply. Dustin was a loving husband, a devoted father to four children, and someone who showed up for his community. As a founder of the McAlester chapter of Oklahomans for Equality, he helped provide space and care for others.

“Dustin was tragically murdered on New Year’s Day 2020, the first transgender American killed that year. While an individual has recently turned themselves in, the loss of Dustin remains no less devastating.

“Dustin’s life, and the tragedy of his murder, was formally recognized in the U.S. Congress when Kendra S. Horn read his name into the Congressional Record in January 2020, a permanent tribute ensuring he will never be forgotten.

“We also must acknowledge the broader and heartbreaking pattern of fatal violence facing transgender people. In 2025 alone, at least 27 transgender and gender-diverse people were reported murdered in the United States, a stark reminder of the disproportionate violence the community continues to endure.

“Dustin’s life has meaning. His family has meaning. Our communities are stronger when we protect one another and ensure everyone has the chance to live safely and fully.

“We honor Dustin by remembering him and by continuing the work of building a more just and compassionate Oklahoma.”

The Gayly online. 4/3/26 @ 5:31 p.m. CST.