Missing Black Transgender Man Danny Siplin Found Dead in Rochester, Police Rule Out Foul Play

Danny “Dusse” Siplin, a 33-year-old Black transgender man beloved in Rochester's LGBTQ+ circles, was found dead on December 26, 2025, after being reported missing three days earlier. His body was discovered during a welfare check on the east side of the Genesee River Gorge near the 600 block of St. Paul Street. Siplin's vehicle was located on Upper Falls Bridge with the engine running, doors closed, and his wallet inside, according to reports from local television stations.

Rochester Police Captain Gregory Bello confirmed to media outlets that initial investigations show no signs of foul play. “At this point in the investigation, there does not appear to be any criminal element to Siplin’s death,” Bello stated, adding that circumstances remain under review and urging anyone with information to contact 911. The Monroe County Medical Examiner’s Office has not yet released an official cause of death, as their response to inquiries was pending as of December 30, 2025.

Siplin was last in contact with his mother, Tracey Riley, on the morning of December 23, 2025. Riley told News10NBC that Siplin, who typically drove her to work at 5 a.m. daily, called to say he wanted to take a ride to see the snow—a favorite of his—but promised to return soon. He never returned, prompting Riley to report him missing. Early search efforts, including drones, were unsuccessful in locating him.

News of Siplin's death prompted an immediate wave of tributes from Rochester's LGBTQ+ organizations and friends, who affirmed his identity using male or gender-neutral pronouns, countering some local media reports that misgendered him. The Avenue Blackbox Theatre , a creative space dedicated to uplifting stories from BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and other marginalized communities, described Siplin as “a member of our Ave family” and “a truly special individual” in a Facebook post. “Our sincere condolences go out to Danny’s mother, family and village… Rest in love, Danny,” the group wrote, crediting member Shay for introducing him to their circle.

Rochester LGBTQ+ Together, a volunteer organization providing education, socialization, and peer support for LGBTQIA2S+ individuals, echoed these sentiments. “We send our deepest condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time,” their Facebook statement read. The Western New York Ballroom Alliance also mourned, stating on Facebook, “Danny’s presence, spirit, and impact will never be forgotten. This loss is deeply felt, and we stand in love, solidarity, and remembrance with everyone mourning today.”

Community member Tamara SweeTii King shared on Facebook: “Whenever I saw Danny or spoke to them it was always positive vibes. Always wanting to put something together for the community.” A blogger at Hisenseox called Siplin “a cherished family member, a friend, and a presence that brought meaning and joy into the lives of those around him.”

Siplin's death comes amid heightened awareness of violence against transgender people, though police have not indicated any criminal involvement in this case. Activists have noted ongoing challenges, including media misgendering, which can contribute to erasure of transgender identities. Rochester's LGBTQ+ groups emphasized solidarity, highlighting Siplin's role in fostering community connections through theater and ballroom culture.

As the investigation proceeds, Rochester police continue to seek public tips. Siplin's family and friends remember him as a joyful force, committed to uplifting others in marginalized communities. His legacy endures through the organizations he supported, underscoring the resilience of Rochester's LGBTQ+ network.