A Saturday rally in Canandaigua brought together dozens of supporters calling for justice for Sam Nordquist, a transgender man from Minnesota who was tortured and killed in Hopewell. Organizers emphasized the need for community action against injustice and violence.
Nordquist’s body was found in Yates County on Feb. 13, and seven suspects have been charged in connection with his murder. Advocates urged local leaders to take violence against marginalized communities seriously, stressing the importance of valuing trans, Black, and impoverished lives.
As the case unfolds, supporters vow to keep Nordquist’s story in the spotlight, ensuring accountability and justice for his family.
Son of previously charged suspect among latest arrests in Nordquist case
Late last week authorities arrested Thomas Eaves, 21, in connection with the brutal murder of Sam Nordquist, revealing a familial link among the suspects. Eaves is the son of Precious Arzuaga, 38, who was charged last week. This brings the total number of suspects to seven, with police investigating additional connections.
Nordquist, a 24-year-old transgender man from Minnesota, endured months of torture before his body was found in Yates County on Feb. 13. Prosecutors describe the case as deeply disturbing, with the Ontario County DA warning more arrests could follow. Eaves and another suspect, Kimberly Sochia, 29, have pleaded not guilty to second-degree murder with depraved indifference.
As the investigation continues, Nordquist’s family and supporters demand justice for the horrific crime.
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