Trigger Warning: This article discusses extreme violence, prolonged torture, and the murder of a transgender individual. It contains details that may be disturbing or triggering to some readers. Please proceed with caution and prioritize your well-being. If you need support, consider reaching out to a trusted friend, counselor, or LGBTQ+ support organization.
In a harrowing case that has left the LGBTQ+ community and local residents shaken, New York State Police announced the arrest of five individuals on charges of second-degree murder in the death of 24-year-old transgender man, Sam Nordquist. Originally from Minnesota, Nordquist endured over a month of torture and abuse before his body was discarded in a remote field in New York’s Finger Lakes region. His death marks yet another devastating loss in a year marked by increasing violence against transgender individuals.
Major Kevin Sucher, commander of the state police troop overseeing the Finger Lakes region, described the case as “beyond depraved” and “by far the worst” homicide investigation his office has ever encountered. “No human being should have to endure what Sam endured,” he said at a press conference.
A Disturbing Pattern of Abuse
Police revealed that Nordquist was subjected to “prolonged physical and psychological abuse” from early December 2024 to February 2025. His body was discovered in a field on February 13, 2025, after police executed a search warrant at the Patty’s Lodge Motel in Canandaigua, the last known location where Nordquist had been staying. According to Captain Kelly Swift of the Bureau of Criminal Investigation, the level of violence Nordquist endured is among the most horrific crimes she has witnessed in her 20-year career.
Those charged in connection with Nordquist’s death include:
- Precious Arzuaga, 38, of Canandaigua, NY
- Patrick Goodwin, 30, of Canandaigua, NY
- Kyle Sage, 33, of Rochester, NY
- Jennifer Quijano, 30, of Geneva, NY
- Emily Motyka, 19, of Lima, NY
The suspects were arrested on February 13 following the search of Patty’s Lodge. All five are being held in custody pending arraignment, with charges of second-degree murder. Police have not yet disclosed the full nature of Nordquist’s relationship with the suspects nor ruled out the possibility of a hate crime.
Timeline of Events
- September 2024: Nordquist travels to New York from Minnesota.
- December 2024 – February 2025: Nordquist is subjected to repeated acts of violence and torture.
- End of January 2025: Nordquist loses contact with his family.
- February 9, 2025: Nordquist is reported missing to New York State Police.
- February 12, 2025: Police issue an alert, stating they are actively investigating his disappearance.
- February 13, 2025: Police execute a search warrant at Patty’s Lodge, leading to the discovery of Nordquist’s body in a field in Yates County.
The LGBTQ+ Community Reacts
Local LGBTQ+ leaders and community members expressed heartbreak and outrage over Nordquist’s tragic death. Brittan Hardgers and Javannah Davis, prominent voices in the local trans community, spoke about the need for more resources and support for transgender individuals in smaller communities like Canandaigua and Geneva.
“Sam won’t get to thrive. He won’t get to see 30,” Hardgers said. “My initial reaction was, ‘Not again.’”
Davis added, “The things that were done to Sam—no one should do that to a dog, let alone a human being. This boils down to basic respect and seeing people as human beings.”
In a joint statement, Rochester City Council members Mary Lupien, Stanley Martin, and Kim Smith reaffirmed their commitment to protecting the city’s LGBTQ+ residents. “Our Trans and LGBTQIA+ residents are, and have always been, integral to the fabric of our communities. We reaffirm our commitment to protecting Trans rights, ensuring safety for all, and wish to make clear that you belong—fully, openly, and without fear.”
A Call for Justice and Reflection
As 2025 unfolds, the rise of anti-trans rhetoric from political leaders continues to foster a dangerous climate for transgender individuals. Nordquist’s death is a stark reminder of the violence that remains an all-too-common reality for the community. Transgender individuals, especially transgender men and women of color, face heightened risks of violence and discrimination.
Captain Kelly Swift emphasized that the investigation remains ongoing and that police are actively reviewing forensic evidence and communications between the suspects. “We haven’t ruled anything out,” Swift said when asked if Nordquist’s murder might be classified as a hate crime. “Significant forensic work is still being done, including downloading phones and electronic devices to establish possible relationships.”
The Bottom Line
Nordquist’s tragic story has ignited calls for action and deeper reflection on how society can better protect transgender individuals. Advocates stress the importance of creating safe spaces and increasing resources in smaller communities. They urge local leaders to invest in outreach programs and mental health services specifically tailored to the needs of transgender individuals.
Sam Nordquist’s life was stolen far too soon. His memory now stands as a beacon for those advocating for justice and a future where such tragedies are no longer a common occurrence.
If you have any information regarding this case, please contact the New York State Police. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities encourage anyone with information to come forward.
As we mourn the loss of Sam, let his story remind us of the urgency to fight for a safer, more compassionate world—one where every individual, regardless of gender identity, can live freely and without fear.
