The tragic and deeply disturbing murder of Sam Nordquist, a 33-year-old transgender man from Oakdale, Minnesota, has taken an even darker turn with newly revealed details about two of the five individuals charged in his killing. The case, already described by Ontario County District Attorney James Ritts as “beyond depraved,” has shocked both local and national communities. Now, additional information about the criminal histories of two suspects—Patrick Goodwin and Kyle Sage—has surfaced, adding to the horror of an already grotesque crime.

Background of the Crime

Sam Nordquist had traveled to Hopewell, New York, in September 2024 to meet Precious Arzuaga, an online girlfriend he had been communicating with. Investigators believe that sometime between January 1 and February 2, 2025, Nordquist was brutally tortured and murdered at Patty’s Lodge Motel, a low-cost roadside motel in Ontario County, where Goodwin resided at the time of his arrest. Court documents suggest the crime was not impulsive but rather premeditated, as Nordquist was subjected to prolonged suffering before his death.

The Suspects and Their Criminal Histories

Among the five people charged with second-degree murder in Nordquist’s death, two have prior convictions related to sexual offenses against minors, further underscoring the disturbing nature of the case.

Patrick Goodwin, 30

Goodwin has a well-documented criminal history. In 2015, he was convicted of first-degree sexual abuse of two young children—a 7-year-old boy and a 9-year-old girl. For this crime, he was sentenced to 10.5 years in prison. However, after serving just under his full sentence, Goodwin was released in 2023. Following his release, he took up residence at Patty’s Lodge Motel, the very location where Nordquist was allegedly tortured and killed.

Kyle Sage, 33

Sage, another suspect in Nordquist’s murder, was convicted in 2022 of fourth-degree grand larceny and first-degree distribution of pornography to a minor. He was sentenced to two to four years in prison and was released in May 2024. While the exact nature of his involvement in Nordquist’s murder has not been fully detailed by law enforcement, his past conviction raises serious concerns about his role in this horrifying crime.

Mother’s Heartbreak and Outrage

Nordquist’s mother, Linda, has been outspoken about the grief and rage she feels after learning about the backgrounds of her son’s alleged killers. In an emotional interview, she expressed her horror, saying, “These people that did this to him are pure evil, they’re not even human.”

She also shared fond memories of her son, recalling their deep bond and the times they spent together. “We were really close,” she said. “We used to get in the vehicle, go driving around, and dream and look at these rich houses. That was our thing.”

The Investigation So Far

Law enforcement officials have been working tirelessly to piece together the events that led to Nordquist’s tragic death. Ontario County District Attorney James Ritts has stated that the circumstances of this case are “by far the worst homicide investigation that our office has ever been a part of.” His statement suggests the sheer brutality and depravity involved in Nordquist’s murder go beyond what local law enforcement has encountered before.

The Other Suspects

While Goodwin and Sage’s criminal histories stand out, authorities have yet to reveal extensive background details about the remaining three suspects. However, it is known that Precious Arzuaga, Nordquist’s online girlfriend, is among those charged. Investigators have not yet disclosed the exact nature of her involvement in the crime, but given that Nordquist had traveled to New York specifically to meet her, her connection to the case is significant.

All five individuals charged with Nordquist’s murder are currently being held in the Ontario County Jail as the case continues to unfold. Law enforcement officials are still investigating potential motives and additional evidence related to the case.

Community Reactions and Call for Justice

Nordquist’s murder has sent shockwaves through the transgender community and beyond. Activists and community members have called for swift justice and have demanded that those responsible be held fully accountable.

“This is not just a hate crime; this is an act of pure evil,” said one LGBTQ+ activist who has been following the case closely. “Sam deserved to live, to be happy, to be loved. No one deserves to die in such a horrific way.”

What Happens Next?

The next steps in the case will involve court proceedings against the suspects. Prosecutors are expected to present further evidence detailing the events leading up to Nordquist’s death. Given the severity of the crime and the prior criminal records of some suspects, there is a strong likelihood that the prosecution will seek the maximum possible sentences.

Investigators continue to urge anyone with further information about the suspects or the crime to come forward, as there may still be additional details that could strengthen the case against those responsible.

A Life Cut Short

As the legal process unfolds, one undeniable fact remains—Sam Nordquist was a beloved son, friend, and community member whose life was stolen in the most horrifying way imaginable. His mother, Linda, is left to grieve, hoping that justice will be served for her son.

While the court system will determine the fate of those accused, the pain of Nordquist’s loss will be felt for years to come. The community continues to mourn, and the call for justice grows louder as the true horror of what happened to him is revealed.