Police in Tucson, Arizona, have confirmed they are investigating a shooting that left three people dead, including the alleged perpetrator, as a suspected hate crime.
Police were called to the Venture-In, a leather bar in Tucson, where officers found three adult men suffering from gunshot wounds. Two men were pronounced dead at the scene. A third man, believed to be the shooter, was transported to hospital with life-threatening injuries and died shortly after arrival.
He has been identified as 44-year-old Ousman Ceesay. The two victims who died at the scene have been identified as 42-year-old Vincent Anthony Siqueiros and 33-year-old Cameron Davis Capara.
Initial evidence suggests the suspect confronted the victims in the car park of the venue before opening fire. After confronting Siqueiros and Capara, the suspect allegedly shot both men.
Police say Ceesay was carrying a list of local LGBTQIA+ businesses.
Tucson Police Chief Monica Prieto said bias-motivated crimes were particularly heinous.
“I am deeply saddened that another senseless loss of life has happened in our community. Bias-based crimes are especially heinous and have no place in our community.
“Our investigators are thoroughly examining the evidence and pursuing all available leads as they work to establish the full circumstances surrounding this tragic incident. At this time, we have no indication that there is any further ongoing threat to the public.
“We recognise this incident may cause fear and pain within our community. The Tucson Police Department has dedicated increased police presence around LGBTQIA+ establishments and is coordinating with community organisations to provide support.
“Tucson is, and always has been, a diverse community where people of different backgrounds, identities and experiences call this city home. We are committed to ensuring every member of our community feels safe, valued and welcomed.”
Tucson Mayor Regina Romero described the shooting as “a direct and devastating attack on our LGBTQ+ community, another senseless act of gun violence”.
“This tragedy serves as yet another painful reminder that homophobia is still rampant in our country. We must implement smarter policies to prevent mass shootings and keep our communities safe.
“Easy access to firearms and Arizona’s weak gun safety laws continue to put all of us at risk,” Romero said.
