New York State Police say a missing persons case out of Ontario County has turned into a homicide investigation.

Police say Sam Nordquist, 24, a transgender man originally from Minnesota, was reported missing on Feb. 9. Investigators say from early January to February, Nordquist was subjected to repeated violence and torture that ultimately led to his death. His body was recovered in a field on Payne Road in Yates County, according to police.

Authorities say Precious Azuaga, 38, of Canandaigua, Jennifer Quijano, 30, of Geneva, Kyle Sage, 33, of Rochester, Patrick Goodwin, 30, of Canandaigua and Emily Motyka, 19, of Lima have all been charged with murder in the second degree in connection with Nordquist's death.

“In my 20-year law enforcement career, this is one of the most horrific crimes I have ever investigated," said Capt. Kelly Swift from the State Police's Bureau of Criminal Investigation.

Authorities say Nordquist was visiting New York in September but never returned home. Loved ones say they lost contact with Norquist on Jan. 1.

Investigators say they executed a search warrant of Room 22 at Patty's Lodge in the town of Hopewell Thursday, where they learned the details of Nordquist's death.

"The facts and the circumstances of this crime are beyond depraved," Ontario County District Attorney Jim Ritts said during a news conference on Friday. "This is by far the worst homicide investigation that our office has ever been a part of."

“As tragic as this is, I’m glad we were able to provide some closure and answers for the family. No one should have to endure the pain that they’re experiencing," said Major Kevin Sucher, commander of State Police's Troop E. “I want to take a moment to emphasize that the work being done here is not just about immediate action, it’s about the well-being of the entire community. The dedication and professionalism for our first responders are a testament to our shared commitment to safety and progress.”

Details are limited as State Police say they are still early in the investigation, however, they say more arrests could be made and they are not ruling out the possibility this case will be treated as a hate crime. Ritts says he anticipates grand jury standing quickly. 

All five suspects were arraigned on Friday morning and are being held at Ontario County Jail without bail. Their next appearance is currently set for Wednesday, Feb. 19, in Hopewell Town Court.

Anyone with information connected to this incident is asked to contact the New York State Police by phone at (585) 398-4100 or by email at crimetip@troopers.ny.gov.