In a deeply disturbing case from upstate New York, five individuals have been arrested and charged with the murder of 24-year-old transgender man, Sam Nordquist. Authorities allege that Nordquist endured over a month of physical and psychological torture before his death.

Background

Originally from Minnesota, Nordquist traveled to New York in September 2024 to meet an online acquaintance. He was last in contact with his family on January 1, 2025, after which communication ceased. Concerned for his well-being, his family reported him missing on February 9. Tragically, on February 13, law enforcement discovered his remains in a field in Yates County, New York.

The Investigation

The New York State Police, in collaboration with local agencies, conducted an intensive investigation leading to the arrest of five suspects:

Precious Arzuaga, 38, of Canandaigua, New York

Patrick Goodwin, 30, of Canandaigua, New York

Kyle Sage, 33, of Rochester, New York

Jennifer Quijano, 30, of Geneva, New York

Emily Motyka, 19, of Lima, New York

All five have been charged with second-degree murder. Authorities allege that Nordquist was subjected to continuous abuse from December 2024 until his death in February 2025. The abuse reportedly took place at Patty’s Lodge motel in Canandaigua, where Nordquist had been residing with some of the suspects.

Details of the Abuse

Investigators have described the pattern of abuse as “deeply disturbing.” Evidence suggests that Nordquist was subjected to repeated acts of violence, including being beaten with various objects. The prolonged abuse ultimately led to his death.

Legal Proceedings

The arrested individuals have been arraigned and are currently held without bail at the Ontario County Jail. Ontario County District Attorney James Ritts described the crime as “beyond depraved,” noting that it is among the most horrific cases his office has encountered.

Community and Official Responses

The brutal nature of the crime has elicited strong reactions from both officials and the community. New York Governor Kathy Hochul condemned the act, stating, “The charges against these individuals are sickening, and all New Yorkers should join together to condemn this horrific act.” She has directed state resources to support the ongoing investigation and to assist Nordquist’s family.

Local LGBTQ+ organizations have also expressed their outrage and sorrow. Rochester LGBTQ+ Together stated, “We are truly angered and disgusted to learn the details of Sam’s final days and immensely saddened to learn of his murder.”

Ongoing Investigation

While the investigation is still in its early stages, authorities have indicated that there is currently no evidence to classify the murder as a hate crime. Both the suspects and the victim were known to each other and identified as LGBTQ+. Investigators continue to explore all possible motives and are urging the public to avoid speculation as they work to uncover the full circumstances surrounding Nordquist’s death.

The tragic death of Sam Nordquist has cast a spotlight on issues of violence within personal relationships and the vulnerabilities faced by transgender individuals. As the legal process unfolds, the community remains united in seeking justice for Sam and ensuring that such a heinous act is not repeated.