11:56 pm - February 23, 2025
A tragic and horrifying incident has unfolded in New York, where a 24-year-old transgender man named Sam Nordquist from Minnesota was found murdered after enduring weeks of torture and abuse. The case has sent shockwaves through the community, with police describing it as one of the most depraved crimes in recent memory. On February 9, New York State Police launched a missing persons investigation after Nordquist’s family requested a welfare check. Just four days later, on February 13, human remains believed to belong to Nordquist were discovered in a field in Yates County, about 50 miles southeast of Rochester. Authorities later confirmed that Nordquist had been subjected to ongoing physical abuse between December 2024 and February 2025, with his body being moved in an attempt to conceal the crime. Captain Kelly Swift of the New York State Police described the case as “one of the most horrific crimes” she has encountered in her 20-year career, emphasizing the repeated acts of violence and torture that led to Nordquist’s death.
Five individuals, ranging in age from 19 to 38, have been arrested and charged with second-degree murder with depraved indifference in connection with Nordquist’s death. The suspects, identified as Precious Arzuaga, 38; Jennifer A. Quijano, 30; Kyle Sage, 33; Patrick A. Goodwin, 30; and Emily Motyka, 19, are currently being held at the Ontario County Jail without bail. Investigators are still working to understand the relationships between the suspects and Nordquist, as well as the motivations behind this heinous crime. While the suspects were arraigned on Friday morning, their attorneys have not yet commented on the case. If convicted, each suspect could face a sentence of 15 years to life in prison. Additionally, the Monroe County Medical Examiner’s Office is conducting an autopsy to determine the exact cause of Nordquist’s death.
Nordquist, who traveled to New York in September 2023 to meet an online girlfriend, had been out of contact with his friends and family since January 1, according to a verified GoFundMe page set up by his loved ones. Police have not ruled out the possibility of classifying the crime as a hate crime, given Nordquist’s identity as a transgender man. The case has raised concerns about the ongoing violence and discrimination faced by transgender individuals. In 2023 alone, there were 35 reported homicides of transgender or gender-expansive people, according to a report by the Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward, as the investigation remains ongoing and additional arrests have not been ruled out.
The murder of Sam Nordquist has sparked widespread outrage and grief, with many expressing their condolences to his family and advocating for justice. Captain Kelly Swift and Ontario County District Attorney Jame Ritts have both condemned the crime, with Ritts describing the facts and circumstances as “beyond depraved.” He emphasized that no human being should ever have to endure the suffering that Nordquist experienced. Meanwhile, members of the Rochester City Council, including Mary Lupien, Stanley Martin, and Kim Smith, have issued a joint statement expressing their support for the transgender community. The statement highlights the importance of inclusivity and the need to stand against violence targeting marginalized groups.
The case has also brought attention to the broader issue of violence against transgender individuals, particularly transgender men, who often face disproportionate levels of violence and discrimination. Advocates are calling for greater awareness and action to protect vulnerable communities, emphasizing the need for systemic change and increased support for LGBTQIA+ individuals. As the investigation continues, many are hopeful that justice will be served for Nordquist and that his case will serve as a catalyst for change.
In summary, the murder of Sam Nordquist is a deeply disturbing reminder of the violence and hatred that still exists in our society. The arrest of five individuals in connection with his death brings some measure of hope for accountability, but the pain and suffering Nordquist endured remain a harrowing testament to the work that still needs to be done to protect vulnerable communities. His story is a tragic reminder of the need for compassion, understanding, and justice for all.