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Police Investigating Death of Grand Rapids Trans Woman Who Allegedly Suffered Falls

Jason A. Michael

In a still unfolding case, Elle Yared, 33, a trans woman from Grand Rapids, died in her apartment Friday, May 14, sometime after allegedly falling multiple times from a scooter she was riding in downtown Grand Rapids. Yared's family said they believe she suffered a brain injury during one or more of her falls.

Grand Rapids Police, however, are not quite sure. They plan to wait until autopsy results are released from the Kent County Medical Examiner before announcing a cause of death. For the moment, they said alcohol may have been involved.

Yared's parents were MariJo and Steve Yared. Elle and MariJo owned Rubies Salon. Steve Yared, meanwhile, posted a tribute to his daughter on Facebook.

"Our hearts are broken with overwhelming sadness with the passing of our beautiful Elle," his post read. "Elle was a positive outgoing delight to know and love. Her fearless attitude drove her to excel in the beauty business and her caring and love touched many, especially the love for her niece Nora."

Friends also spoke out about Yared's kindness.

"Yes, she was a trans woman," close friend Derek Allen shared in an email to MLive.com. "She always lived her life 100 percent authentic to how she felt and to who she was. She was always raising that flag letting people know it's OK to be who you are and to own it! She had no prejudice against anyone. She loved all. She was a beautiful soul."

Yared was originally from Seoul, Korea. She graduated from Grand Rapids City High School and went on to study fashion and design at Grand Rapids Community College. She also studied cosmetology at Douglas J Aveda Institute.

Steve Yared said that a celebration of life will be held for his daughter in the near future.

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