The discovery of 24-year-old Sam Nordquist’s body in a remote field off Payne Road in Yates County has sent shockwaves through the community and sparked a criminal investigation that has now resulted in five people being charged with his murder. Sam, a transgender man, was subjected to a month-long ordeal of repeated torture and abuse before his untimely death. Investigators from the New York State Police (NYSP) are still working to piece together the events that led to his murder, but five individuals have already been arrested and charged with second-degree murder in connection to the case.
Sam Nordquist, a Minnesota native, was reported missing in early February after his family lost contact with him. The last known sighting of Nordquist was in Canandaigua, New York, in the Finger Lakes region, where he had traveled in September 2024. According to Captain Kelly Swift of the NYSP Bureau of Criminal Investigations, Nordquist suffered prolonged physical and psychological abuse starting in December. The details of his torture have shocked the investigators and the public, leaving many struggling to comprehend the cruelty of his death. While the investigation is ongoing, authorities have yet to release any specific details as to whether his transgender identity played a role in his murder. This has left many wondering about the possible motivations behind the crime and if hate was a factor in the violence that led to his death.
During a press conference on Friday, Captain Swift confirmed that investigators had discovered the body of Sam Nordquist after receiving a tip-off and combing through the area surrounding Payne Road. His body was found in a field, and the NYSP immediately launched an investigation into his tragic death. Swift described the abuse Nordquist had endured, calling it “prolonged physical and physiological abuse,” and it’s clear that the victim’s suffering had been ongoing for weeks before his life was ultimately cut short.
At the press conference, Michelle Pickard, a family friend, spoke on behalf of Sam’s grieving family, who had traveled from Minnesota to attend the press event. With emotion evident in her voice, Pickard stated, “It’s disgusting the things that are out there. I just pray for Sam. I pray for her family and her friends.” The anguish and devastation felt by Sam’s family are palpable, as they try to make sense of the senseless act that took their loved one’s life. The painful details of Sam’s final weeks have been deeply unsettling, but his family’s resolve to bring justice to his memory remains unwavering.
Investigators have confirmed that the last known place Sam was staying was Patty’s Lodge Motel, a location in the Canandaigua area. Troopers had been searching the Canandaigua and Geneva regions for him after his disappearance in early February. The details of Sam’s time at the motel are still under investigation, but the search efforts led to the discovery of the body in the field, bringing some closure to his family, though the true extent of the trauma Sam endured is far from over.
Five individuals have been arrested and charged in connection with Sam Nordquist’s death. The accused murderers include 38-year-old Precious Arzuaga of Canandaigua, 33-year-old Kyle Sage from Rochester, 30-year-old Jennifer Quijano of Geneva, 30-year-old Patrick Goodwin from Canandaigua, and 19-year-old Emily Motyka of Lima. The charges against these individuals are related to second-degree murder, which typically involves the intentional killing of a person without premeditation or planning. Given the nature of the charges and the fact that the victim suffered prolonged abuse, many are still reeling from the horrific details of what Sam endured in his final days.
As the investigation continues, the New York State Police are actively seeking any additional information that could aid in their inquiry. They have urged anyone who may have information about the case to contact them via email at crimetip@troopers.ny.gov or by calling the tip line at (585)-398-4100. Investigators are working tirelessly to understand the circumstances of the crime and ensure that all individuals responsible for this brutal act are held accountable for their actions.
The murder of Sam Nordquist is a tragic reminder of the violence that too often faces transgender individuals in our society. While the investigation has not yet confirmed whether his transgender identity was a motivating factor in his death, the circumstances surrounding the case have raised questions about potential bias and discrimination. It is crucial that law enforcement agencies continue to explore all angles in their investigation and ensure that justice is served, regardless of the victim’s identity. The senseless brutality of Sam’s death demands answers, and his family, friends, and advocates are determined to ensure that his memory lives on in the fight for justice.
The news of Sam’s murder has shaken not only his family and friends but also the broader LGBTQ+ community. The fear of violence and hate crimes is a harsh reality that many transgender individuals face every day. While progress has been made in the fight for equal rights and recognition, incidents like Sam’s death highlight the challenges that still remain in ensuring the safety and well-being of transgender individuals. The outpouring of support from advocates, friends, and allies following Sam’s death has underscored the importance of standing up for marginalized communities and fighting against hate in all its forms.
As the legal process moves forward, the community is reminded of the importance of supporting the victims of violent crimes and their families. The road to justice can be long and difficult, but it is vital that those who commit such heinous acts are held accountable. Sam Nordquist’s family and the countless individuals who loved him deserve answers, and they are determined to see justice served.
In the wake of this tragedy, many are reflecting on the need to create a world where violence against transgender individuals is no longer a threat. The memory of Sam Nordquist will live on through the efforts of those who work to prevent similar violence and ensure that every person, regardless of their gender identity, is treated with respect and dignity. As the investigation into his death continues, it is clear that Sam’s life and legacy will continue to inspire the fight for justice and equality.
Anyone with information regarding Sam Nordquist’s murder is urged to come forward and help bring closure to his family. This is not just about seeking justice for one person; it is about sending a message that violence against transgender individuals will not be tolerated and that every person deserves to live without fear. Sam’s death is a tragedy, but it is also an opportunity for change—an opportunity to honor his memory by fighting for a world where all people can live in safety and peace. GoFundMe
