No Evidence Yet That Sam Nordquist’s Brutal Murder Was a Hate Crime, Say Prosecutors

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Authorities investigating the shocking murder of transgender man Sam Nordquist in upstate New York have stated there is “no indication” so far that the crime was motivated by hate. This revelation comes as Governor Kathy Hochul condemned the brutality of the attack and mobilized state resources to aid in the investigation.  

 

Nordquist, 24, was reportedly subjected to relentless torture for over a month while staying at Patty’s Lodge motel in Canandaigua before his tragic death. According to court documents, he was brutally assaulted with fists, sticks, dog toys, rope canes, belts, a table leg, and even a broomstick. His lifeless body was later discarded in an empty field in neighboring Yates County.  

 

Despite the gruesome nature of the crime, the Ontario County District Attorney’s Office and New York State Police released a joint statement on Sunday clarifying that there is no evidence at this stage to classify the murder as a hate crime. “To help alleviate the understandable concern that Sam’s murder could be a hate crime, we are disclosing that Sam and his assailants were known to each other, identified as LGBTQ+, and at least one of the defendants lived with Sam in the time period leading up to the instant offense,” the statement read, as reported by *Spectrum News.*  

 

The investigation is still in its early stages, but authorities have already made significant progress, with five individuals facing second-degree murder charges. Those charged include Precious Arzuaga, 38; Jennifer A. Quijano, 30; Kyle Sage, 33; Patrick A. Goodwin, 19; and Emily Motyka, 19. All five have been arraigned and are being held without bail.  

 

New York State Police Captain Kelly Swift confirmed that Nordquist suffered “repeated acts of torture and violence” leading up to his death. His family had initially reported him missing on February 9, and his body was discovered three days later.  

 

Governor Hochul spoke out against the heinous crime on Sunday, calling the details “horrific and brutal.” She urged New Yorkers to unite in condemnation of the act, offering her condolences to Nordquist’s grieving family, friends, and community. “The charges against these individuals are sickening, and all New Yorkers should join together to condemn this horrific act. We are praying for Sam Nordquist’s family, community, and loved ones who are experiencing unimaginable grief,” Hochul said.  

 

While authorities have yet to determine a definitive motive, Hochul has directed State Police to provide all necessary support to the District Attorney’s office as they continue the investigation. This includes examining whether the crime could ultimately be classified as a hate crime.  

 

The District Attorney’s Office has urged the public to avoid speculation while the investigation continues, emphasizing that their focus remains on securing justice for Nordquist.

 

Based on a report by NYP  2025-02-18

 

 

[Red Forever]

Erm…..isn’t any murder a hate crime?

[Nick Carter icp]

2 minutes ago, Red Forever said:

Erm…..isn’t any murder a hate crime?

 

   No : Do a websearch to find out what a hate crime is 

[Baht Simpson]

It may not be a hate crime in a legal sense but it clearly involves an inordinate amount of hatred. Torturing someone for a month? It must surely be drug related. We'll see.

[Purdey]

Perhaps when they catch the culprits they will find out why the murder was committed.