3 suspects apprehended in the killing of a Phoenix man, his family alleges he was singled out due to his sexual orientation

This blog originally appeared at NBC News.

Family and acquaintances of 30-year-old Bernardo Pantaleon assert that they suspect he was targeted in a hate crime.

Three individuals have been apprehended in relation to the homicide of a Phoenix man from last month, a case where his loved ones claim he was singled out due to his sexual orientation, as per authorities.

The individuals are facing charges of first-degree murder in the demise of 30-year-old Bernardo Pantaleon on November 25.

Court records indicate that the victim, Bernardo Pantaleon, was discovered deceased and unclothed in a municipal park, having suffered fatal gunshot wounds. His body was subsequently mutilated with a knife.

Law enforcement reported that the individuals in question transmitted images of Bernardo Pantaleon’s deceased body to his relatives. Subsequently, these men were apprehended on Saturday and currently remain in custody, with bond amounts ranging from $500,000 to $2 million.

Supporters and family members of Bernardo Pantaleon contend that his murder was a hate crime due to his sexual orientation and flamboyant attire. According to police investigators, the accused individuals, all in their early 20s, allegedly conspired to both rob and fatally harm Pantaleon.

Detectives reviewed social media messages exchanged between the three suspects in the days following Pantaleon’s death, uncovering discussions related to the murder.

“Some of the messages contained derogatory remarks about the victim’s sexuality and expressed discriminatory views, including a statement asserting that homosexuals are not allowed in Phoenix’s northside,” stated the probable cause statement

Police reported that all three suspects were interviewed, and each confessed to the murder. It remains unclear as of Tuesday whether any of the individuals have obtained legal representation.