TUCSON, Ariz. — Two men were fatally shot early Monday outside a gay bar in Tucson in a case authorities are investigating as a potential hate crime.

The shooting occurred around 12:30 a.m. in the parking lot of Venture-N, a bar located in midtown Tucson. The victims were identified as Vincent Anthony Siqueiros, 42, and Cameron Davis Capara, 33. Both were pronounced dead at the scene, according to police.

The suspect, 44-year-old Ousman Ceesay, was also found with gunshot wounds when officers arrived. He was transported to a nearby hospital but died shortly afterward. It remains unclear whether his injuries were self-inflicted.

Police said Ceesay was found in possession of a note listing several businesses associated with the L.G.B.T.Q. community, suggesting the attack was targeted. In response, Tucson police have increased patrols across the city.

Public records show Ceesay had an address in Oklahoma City and no criminal history beyond a speeding ticket issued in 2012. In 2018, he and a former spouse filed for bankruptcy. Media attempts to contact the ex-spouse were unsuccessful. Court documents indicate Ceesay briefly worked as a rideshare driver.

Tucson Mayor Regina Romero described the shooting as a devastating assault on the local L.G.B.T.Q. community in a video statement posted on social media. She condemned the incident as a stark reminder that homophobia remains a persistent issue. Tucson Police Chief Monica Prieto called bias-motivated crimes “especially heinous” and said they have no place in the community.

Tucson, the second-largest city in Arizona, is known for its progressive stance and strong L.G.B.T.Q. advocacy. The city has a history of activism dating back to 1976, when the murder of a young gay man outside a bar prompted the founding of Tucson Pride and efforts toward early anti-discrimination protections in the state. The Human Rights Campaign has consistently rated Tucson with the highest score on its municipal equality index, which evaluates inclusivity in city laws and policies.

Residents described Venture-N as a close-knit, welcoming space where patrons felt safe and accepted. Sam Cloud, a member of the city’s L.G.B.T.Q. commission, said the shooting struck the community deeply because the bar has long been a place where people could gather without fear.

The Pima County attorney, Laura Conover, noted that since the only known suspect has died, prosecution is unlikely.

Family members of the victims expressed profound grief. Amanda Kate Marquez, sister of Vincent Siqueiros, remembered her brother as loving and humorous, and highlighted his close relationships with family and friends. Berni Capara, mother of Cameron Capara, described her son as caring and nonjudgmental, with a passion for photography and documenting social protests.

Outside Venture-N on Tuesday afternoon, mourners placed candles, flowers, and photographs to honor those lost. Regular patron John Cuccini reflected on the impact of the shooting, saying it could have happened to anyone in the tight-knit community.

Friends of Cameron Capara also left tributes at the bar, recalling his warmth and the joy he brought to those around him. “He was so happy,” one friend said tearfully.