By Omar Bah
A deadly shooting that killed three people early Monday morning, including the shooter, a Gambian, is being investigated as a hate crime, according to the Tucson Police Department.
Police say that the suspect, 44-year-old Ousman Ceesay, confronted the two victims, 42-year-old Vincent Anthony Siqueiros and 33-year-old Cameron Davis Capara at around 12:30 a.m. and allegedly shot and killed both in the parking lot of the Venture-N Bar.
The two victims were pronounced dead at the scene. The suspect, a Gambian national was transported to a hospital with life-threatening injuries and pronounced dead shortly after.
Police say Ceesay had a note with several LGBTQIA+ businesses on them.
Reacting to the incident, Chief of Police Monica Prieto said: “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.”
She added: “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 organizations 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.”
Also, commenting on the issue, Pima County Attorney Laura Conover stated: “Our LGBTQ+ community feels under attack upon awakening to the disturbing news of what occurred overnight outside what is normally a welcome and safe environment. No one should fear being targeted simply because of who they are and where they gather. I speak in solidarity with our LGBTQ+ community.”
Conover said law enforcement officials believe the shooting was an isolated incident and all known suspects are deceased.
Police say additional information will be released at a later date as it becomes available.
Tucson Police Department