Jennifer Lopez has spoken out following the deadly shooting outside a gay bar in Tucson, Arizona, which is being investigated by police as a possible hate crime.
The singer and actor shared a message of support for the LGBTQ+ community after two men were killed outside Venture-N, a long-established LGBTQ+ venue in the city.
Posting on Instagram, Lopez wrote: “Heartbroken over yet another senseless act of violence against our LGBTQIA+ community. Sending love and strength to everyone in Tucson, and to the loved ones of those we lost. You are seen, you are loved.”
The shooting took place shortly after midnight on 31 August in the car park of Venture-N. Tucson police say 42-year-old Vincent Anthony Siqueiros and 33-year-old Cameron Davis Capara were fatally shot. The suspected gunman, identified as 44-year-old Ousman Ceesay, later died in hospital after suffering gunshot wounds.
Authorities are treating the incident as a possible hate crime after investigators discovered a note allegedly carried by the suspect listing several LGBTQ+ associated businesses. Police have said there is no ongoing threat to the public, but have increased patrols around LGBTQ+ venues in the area.
Tucson Mayor Regina Romero described the attack as “a direct and devastating attack on our LGBTQ+ community”, while Police Chief Monica Prieto said bias-motivated crimes “have no place in our community”.
Tributes have continued to pour in for the victims. Friends described Siqueiros as a “thoughtful, considerate person” who always looked for the best in others, while Capara was remembered as a photographer and community advocate who believed in “a better future” for everyone.
Lopez has long been a vocal supporter of LGBTQ+ rights and visibility. Her statement joins a growing chorus of condemnation from community leaders, activists and public figures in the wake of the shooting.
The investigation remains ongoing.
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