A fundraiser for a trans acid attack victim’s surgery costs has reached over $70,00 (£51,773) in less than a week.

25-year-old Diana was struck with an acidic substance while walking through West Philadelphia on 1 June, leaving her with severe burns.

After getting off a bus on 52nd street while heading towards a local Pride event, she was confronted by three boys, all under-18, who allegedly threw the corrosive substance – later described by police as battery acid – over her.

She is currently being treated at the Temple Burn Center for third and second-degree burns to her face, legs, arms, neck and torso, and is expected to remain hospitalised for at least three weeks.

A GoFundMe created to support her recovery writes that Diana will likely need at least two skin grafts and is being “prepared for multiple surgeries.”

“Because of the nature of these types of burns, we won’t know how they will evolve during her recovery so while we’re hoping for the best, we want Diana to be fully supported in case any extra care is needed,” the fundraiser’s organiser, Shiloh, wrote.

In just six days, the fundraiser, which will go towards surgery costs and hospital bills, has received over $70,000 (£51,773) from over 1,640 people. The fundraiser is available here.

Donations will also go towards rent and other expenses after Diana was told not to work for at least a month. Her father will reportedly handle funds while Diana focuses on recovering.

Investigating officers said they are current searching for three young males in connection with the incident and are analysing CCTV footage for video of the incident, according to The Phildadelphia Inquirer.

Police did not clarify whether they were investigating the incident as a hate crime. The GoFundMe similarly writes that they are unsure whether the attack was premeditated.

“Diana has been in such good spirits given the circumstances and is healing with laughter and love from her friends and family,” Shiloh continued. “If you know Diana, you know she’s the sweetest angel and an absolute spitfire.”

West Philadelphia council member, Jamie Gauther, said in an X/Twitter post that she was “horrified” after hearing about the alleged attack.

“Young people are not born with hate in their hearts, Instead, the politically motivated, anti-trans hatred spewing out of Washington indoctrinates our kids and incites terrible violence,” she added. “That is why it has never been more important for every Philadelphian to live and preach Brotherly love.

“To our trans community, know that I am and will always be your fierce and unapologetic ally.”

No arrests have yet been made. Police are asking anyone with information regarding the alleged attack to contact the Southwest Detective Division at 215-686-3183/3184 or call or text the police tip line at 215-686-TIPS (8477).

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