By Margaret Kates 

Tayy Dior Thomas, 17, of Mobile, Ala. Thomas was killed in May, and her family remembers her as a kind, loving person. (Photo courtesy Rolanda Carl)Rolanda Carl

The family of Tayy Dior Thomas say they hope the 17-year-old’s shooting death last month in Mobile sparks a change in Alabama’s hate crimes law.

Thomas was shot and killed May 7 on Darwood Drive in Mobile.

Family members say that Thomas, a transgender woman, was killed by her romantic partner for fear of their relationship being exposed.

Carl Mitchell Washington, Jr. was arrested and charged with Thomas’ death.