Tucson police have confirmed that a shooting outside a gay bar that resulted in three deaths, including the perpetrator, was a hate crime. The suspect, identified as 44-year-old Ousman Ceesay, was a recent arrival to Tucson and did not know the victims, according to a news release from the Tucson Police Department.
Detectives discovered a note in Ceesay's home stating that he acted alone and that the attack was motivated by hate towards the LGBTQIA+ community, the department said. Ceesay confronted victims Vincent Anthony Siqueiros, 42, and Cameron Davis Capara, 33, in the parking lot of the Venture-N bar around 12:30 a.m. Monday. He then shot himself with a 9mm handgun and did not attempt to enter the establishment, police reported.
Siqueiros and Capara were pronounced dead at the scene, while Ceesay died at a nearby hospital. Police stated that Ceesay was carrying a list of other LGBTQIA+-associated businesses in the area. He had no prior police record and was legally permitted to own firearms.
Authorities have contacted all businesses on the suspect's list and indicated there is no known ongoing threat to the community. The department is collaborating with community organizations to offer support and provided security at a candlelight vigil for Siqueiros and Capara held Wednesday evening.
At the Venture-N bar, rainbow-colored candles, flowers, and photographs honoring the deceased adorned the exterior wall. The shooting has unsettled the LGBTQIA+ community in Tucson, a city generally recognized for its welcoming atmosphere. Tucson Queerstory, one of the groups organizing the vigil, described Venture-N as a "steadfast safe place for Tucson’s queer community" and urged public support for the bar as it recovers. The organization characterized the event as a heartbreaking and infuriating addition to the city's history of hate crimes, emphasizing unity and the right to exist. Family members of Capara and Siqueiros expressed gratitude for the widespread support they have received.