Minnesota Electronic Music Community Grieves Loss of Local DJ Liara Tsai

Liara Tsai, a local Minnesota DJ and Trevor Project volunteer, was killed at just 35 years old, Minnesota Public Radio reports.

Hailing originally from Mauston, Wisconsin, the transgender musician had just accomplished a long-anticipated move from Iowa City to join the Minneapolis EDM community. With a focus on spirituality, the techno and house music-focused DJ was beloved for her ability to freestyle all of her shows.

According to friends within the community, Tsai was starting to gain popularity and a dedicated fanbase as tragedy struck. She frequently performed around Minneapolis through one of the city’s well-known promoters, Intellephunk, and had also recently become a crisis counselor for the promotion brand.

Along with her involvement in the music community, Tsai volunteered with the Trevor Project, a nonprofit organization focused on suicide prevention among LGBTQ+ individuals.

According to MPR, the DJ’s former partner, Margot Lewis, was charged with two counts of second-degree murder in Minneapolis’ Hennepin County. Tsai’s autopsy reportedly revealed that she was found “with a puncture wound on her neck” and died as a result of “multiple sharp-force injuries.”

Tsai and fellow DJ and friend Dana Kazuko were scheduled to have their first joint performance at Minneapolis’ Uptown VFW today, July 5th. The performance will now be carried out solely by Kazuko, who is planning to play Tsai’s music alongside a video she’s prepared, per MPR. The show’s proceeds will benefit Twin Cities Trans Mutual Aid.

We at EDM.com express our sincere condolences to the family, fans, friends and loved ones of Liara Tsai.