In Video: 'Beyond depraved': 5 people charged in death of Minnesota transgender man
Horrific New Details Emerge in Murder of Transgender Man Sam Nordquist
Chilling Details of Torture and Murder in Upstate New York
A 24-year-old transgender man, Sam Nordquist, from Minnesota, has been found dead in a field in Yates County, New York, in a case that authorities are calling "beyond depraved." Investigators believe that Nordquist was subjected to repeated physical and psychological abuse for weeks inside a motel room in Hopewell, leading to his death.
The shocking details of this crime have left investigators and the community reeling. "This is one of the most horrific crimes I have ever investigated," said a family member. Nordquist, who had traveled to New York in September 2024 to connect with an online girlfriend, Precious Arzuaga, had been missing since early this year. His family had feared for his safety and lost touch with him.
Five Suspects Charged with Second-Degree Murder
On Thursday, Nordquist’s remains were discovered in a field, and authorities have charged five individuals – Precious Arzuaga, Jennifer Kiano, Kyle Sage, Patrick Goodwin, and Emily Motika – with second-degree murder with depraved indifference. Police records reveal that Goodwin has a prior conviction for sexual abuse of a minor, while Sage has been convicted of sexual abuse of a minor and distribution of pornography to a minor.
Outrage and Call for Justice
New York Governor Kathy Hochul has called the case "sickening" and vowed that there must be justice for Sam Nordquist. Community members in Upstate New York have come together for a vigil to show support for Sam and his family, demanding that the perpetrators be brought to justice.
No Evidence of Hate Crime
In a statement, district attorneys and the State Police confirmed that there is no evidence of a hate crime, saying that Sam and his assailants were known to each other, and at least one of the defendants lived with Sam in the weeks leading up to his death. "Just because you’re part of the LGBTQ+ community doesn’t mean you’re supporting that T and that Q," said Britain Hargreaves, a community organizer and trans individual from a nearby town. "This is a human rights issue, not a trans issue."
Seeking Justice and Closure
As the case makes its way through the courts, the community remains shaken by the devastating loss of a young life. If found guilty, the five suspects could face up to 15 years to life in prison.
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