Local News

Official: ‘Series’ of incidents targeting LGBTQ+ community in Provincetown under investigation

“These events are disturbing, and we share the fear and discomfort they are causing in our community.”

Rainbow flags adorn the front of the Boatslip Beach Club in Provincetown. John Tlumacki /The Boston Globe, File

July 2, 2025

2 minutes to read

Officials in Provincetown said Wednesday they are investigating a “series” of incidents in recent days targeting members of the LGBTQ+ community in the town.

“These events are disturbing, and we share the fear and discomfort they are causing in our community,” Town Manager Alex Morse said in a statement. “The Town and the Provincetown Police Department are taking these incidents very seriously and are actively investigating.”

A man reported being beaten by three men who used a homophobic slur during the predawn hours Monday morning. Police are investigating the incident as a possible hate crime.

The man, who identified himself as Chris Kostka in videos shared on social media, said the attack happened as he was walking home from a friend’s.

Police said Koskta told investigators he was walking on Bradford Street in the area of Howland Street in the east end between 1 and 2 a.m. Monday when a black Lexus sedan pulled up. He told police three white men in their 20s or 30s got out of the car and beat him, using a homophobic slur during the attack.

Police are asking anyone in the area of Howland Street to check personal security or doorbell cameras for any possible footage captured during the window of the assault that could assist with their investigation.

Police also received reports on Tuesday of people yelling homophobic slurs from a vehicle, Morse said Wednesday. In that incident, Morse said police responded quickly, located the vehicle and identified the suspects.

Charges are in the process of being filed, he said.

“This event shows why it’s important to report information immediately to police,” Morse said. “Our Police Department’s quick response should serve as a warning to those who come here to cause harm that this type of behavior will not be tolerated in Provincetown.”

Morse said the department will have additional officers on duty during the Fourth of July holiday weekend to “look for suspicious and potentially harmful activity and be a visible presence.”

A community safety forum is planned for Tuesday, during which officials will provide updates on the recent incidents, share safety tips, and host a community discussion about “how to protect ourselves and each other,” Morse said/

“While recent events have shown that hate can happen here, it has no home here,” Morse said. “We will – as generations before us have – come together, protect one another, and ensure that Provincetown remains a safe space for the LGBTQ+ community and everyone who lives and visits here. We will not let hate win. Go out and have fun this weekend, support local businesses, tip your Drag Queens, enjoy the Fireworks, and dance the night away.”

Morse shared a list of safety reminders in his message, urging community members to stay aware of their surroundings, stay in groups whenever possible, and to report any and all incidents should they occur.

He also called on people to support one another but also “take care of [themselves].”

“Hate incidents are traumatic,” he wrote. “Reach out to friends, local organizations, or counseling services for support.”