Drag Artist Sible Sible Stackhouse Assaulted in York, PA; Suspect Arrested After Attack Outside Local Bar

On the night of August 22, 2025, Sible Sible Stackhouse—known to friends and fans as Vayne—was leaving Gift Horse Brewing Company in downtown York, Pennsylvania, accompanied by two friends. According to eyewitness accounts and social media posts by Brady Pappas, one of Stackhouse’s companions, the group was accosted inside the bar by five individuals who hurled homophobic slurs and threats at them. The harassment escalated when the group followed Stackhouse and their friends outside, shouting derogatory remarks such as “If you wanna dress like women act like women” and “Leave f*ggots! Get out of here!”.

As the confrontation moved onto the street, the situation turned violent. The aggressors, led by Devin Harbaugh, pursued Stackhouse and the others, physically attacking them. Stackhouse was beaten and choked to the point of losing consciousness. Witnesses and victims have emphasized that Stackhouse did not initiate any physical aggression and repeatedly stated a desire to avoid conflict.

York City Police responded to the incident swiftly. Authorities confirmed the arrest of Devin Harbaugh on charges of aggravated assault and strangulation. Both staff members at Gift Horse Brewing Company provided statements, and the establishment gave police access to security footage and the names of the alleged perpetrators, which were obtained from their tabs.

Captain Daniel Lentz, Chief of Staff with the York City Police Department, stated that the investigation remains active and that additional details may emerge in the coming days. The department has deployed its newly appointed trauma responder counselor to support those affected by the violence.

Notably, despite the clear presence of anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric during the attack, the strangulation charge is not being prosecuted as a hate crime. Local advocates and affected community members have voiced concern about the absence of hate crime charges, highlighting gaps in legal recognition and protection for LGBTQ+ individuals facing targeted assaults.

The attack on Stackhouse, who is widely recognized for fostering safe spaces and empowering queer and drag artists in York, has sent shockwaves through the local and national LGBTQ+ community. Both Stackhouse and their friend, Tragedy, are credited with building a welcoming environment for drag performers and queer individuals in downtown York.

Community leaders and advocates have expressed outrage and sorrow, emphasizing the emotional and physical toll such incidents inflict not only on victims but on the broader LGBTQ+ community. “The climate of hate, promoted by bias, prejudice and discrimination, harms us all,” said Pappas in a public statement. “This is not a society conducive to unity, acceptance and the ability to thrive. The focus instead, remains on division and a false sense of differences. We have to do better Pennsylvania.”

In response to the attack, local organizers are planning benefit events to support Stackhouse’s recovery and advocacy efforts. A benefit drag show titled “No Fear, All Fierce” is scheduled for September 13 in Boiling Springs, PA, with proceeds aiding Stackhouse and continuing their work for LGBTQ+ visibility and safety.

The assault on Stackhouse is part of a troubling rise in hostility and violence directed towards LGBTQ+ individuals across the United States. According to national advocacy organizations, hate-motivated attacks, particularly targeting drag artists and transgender people, have surged in recent years. Many advocates and legal experts continue to push for stronger hate crime legislation and more robust protections for LGBTQ+ communities.

Local LGBTQ+ groups are urging authorities to reconsider the decision not to pursue hate crime charges in this case, stressing the need for justice and accountability when bias-motivated violence occurs. The incident has also prompted renewed calls for education, allyship, and the creation of safe spaces where all identities are respected and celebrated.

As Stackhouse and their friends recover from both physical and emotional trauma, the York community is rallying around them. The outpouring of support includes financial aid, mental health resources, and collective action aimed at preventing future violence. The Gift Horse Brewing Company, where the attack began, has reiterated its commitment to being an inclusive and safe venue for LGBTQ+ patrons, and is cooperating fully with the investigation.

Advocates emphasize that healing will require more than individual support; systemic change is necessary to safeguard marginalized communities. “We must stand together and ensure that hate has no safe harbor in our neighborhoods,” said local organizer Tragedy.