New York prosecutors confirm no evidence currently links the torture killing of 24-year-old transgender man Sam Nordquist to hate crime motives. Five individuals, including a woman Nordquist met online, were charged with second-degree murder after a “beyond depraved” investigation uncovered systemic abuse leading to his death.
“His assailants were known to each other, identified as LGBTQ+, and at least one defendant lived with Sam,”stated the Ontario County District Attorney’s Office, emphasizing the need to avoid premature conclusions. Authorities described a “deeply disturbing pattern of abuse” during searches at Patty’s Lodge motel, Nordquist’s last known location.
Nordquist moved from Minnesota to New York in September 2023 to pursue a romantic relationship but faced escalating control by those involved. His mother, Linda Nordquist, revealed he sought help from social services in December, citing a toxic dynamic and homesickness. Phone contact dwindled months before his disappearance in February.
New York’s hate crime law requires bias to substantially motivate an act. While advocates monitor developments, officials stress focusing on securing justice rather than speculating about prejudice. All five suspects await legal representation as the Ontario County Public Defender’s office reviews the case.