From the Associated Press:
A singer whose songs have topped the Billboard dance chart was attacked by a group yelling anti-gay slurs, and four people were arrested on hate-crime charges, police and his publicist said.
Kevin Aviance, 38, underwent surgery for a broken jaw after the attack Saturday, said his publicist, Len Evans. Police said the singer, whose song "Alive" hit the top of the chart in 2002, was in stable condition.
A group of six or seven men attacked Aviance early Saturday, and passers-by did not stop to help as they threw objects at him, Evans said.
Four people were arrested on charges of first-degree assault as a hate crime, police said. They were identified as Jarell Sears and Akino George, both 20; Gregory Archie, 18; and Gerard Johnson, 16.
Aviance performs in drag but was "dressed like a boy" when he was attacked, Evans said. He had planned to take part in next week's Gay Pride parade and festivities, but will now be unable to perform, the publicist said.
Further information:
- The attack took place
outside of theafter Kevin left the Phoenix in the East Village. He was walking on Forteenth Street, near First Avenue. - NY1 is reporting that Kevin will be out of the hospital later today.
- Kevin's bio and other information is well detailed at the Queen Mother site.
This news is shocking, disturbing, and disgusting. Anyone who has been around Kevin over the years can tell you that he is strong and a survivor. He has my best wishes for a swift recovery. You can send your wishes to Kevin at the Motherboards forum.
