Two Women Harmed in San Diego LGBTQ+ Bar Incidents

This past weekend, two transgender women were hurt in terrifying attacks at LGBTQ+ bars in San Diego. Someone in a moving vehicle fired a pellet gun and sped off, leaving behind a community rattled by fear.

Pedro Lomeli, a bartender at SRO Lounge—one scene hit by this violence—voiced his worry over how it affects local LGBTQ+ folks. "It's more painful than anything because it robs our patrons' sense that this space can be safe," he said, reflecting on how such acts shake people up emotionally.

Inside story on attacks at LGBTQ+ spots

The first attack struck at about 1 a.m. on November 15th outside SRO Lounge. People were hanging out when shots rang out. "Loud plops. Pop, Pop, Pop," Lomeli recalled, describing those terrifying moments while he was tending bar. He rushed out afterward and saw one woman injured, holding her bleeding hand. "She's a vet, and she looked really rattled, saying, 'I haven't felt this scared since I was overseas. This really messes with you,'" he recounted.

The second woman came inside after being hit. "She pulled her hand off, and there was a big welt on her shoulder," Lomeli noted. That these victims are transgender women adds a chilling fear factor.

Eyewitnesses think between five and ten pellets were shot. Even though pellet guns are less deadly than real firearms, they can still do serious damage, especially when aimed at vital spots. These guns are often used in hunting small animals.

Witnesses did mention seeing an older black Ford F-150 drive away, which could be a huge clue in finding who's responsible.

A second hit at Flicks Bar in Hillcrest

The second attack happened over at Flicks, a spot nestled in San Diego's LGBTQ+ neighborhood, Hillcrest. Luckily, no one got hurt this time. But this has everyone tense, on edge because it fits a recent pattern. Just last year, Hillcrest saw similar pellet gun attacks. Four teens have already pleaded guilty in those cases, but one case from May 2024—where someone was shot in an eye—remains open.

People in this community—both victims and supporters—are convinced these aren't random stunts but targeted attacks on LGBTQ+ folks. "It's not a prank. This targets LGBT people," said a victim from last year.

Police response and community's strength

San Diego's Police Department knows how serious these attacks are. "We don't have a lot yet and are trying hard now gathering any information we can. Any witnesses or even victims knowing anything should reach out," they announced. The community has been asked earnestly—share what you've got—it might just help catch those behind these awful acts.

These events have rekindled conversations on ensuring safety in LGBTQ+ spaces, promoting group solidarity, and tackling challenges head-on. Allies and community members should stick together, supporting each other as best they can during challenging moments like these.

While investigations roll on, bars impacted and their people show strength in unity. Loyal hangouts and friendly faces make places like these shelters in life, offering warmth and empathy. Despite all that's happened, this community proudly stands its ground—claiming their space courageously, without fear.

For anyone looking at keeping updated with how this story unfolds or broader LGBTQ+ matters, think about subscribing or connecting through newsletters and local organizations. Staying looped in empowers not just individuals but whole communities, setting us all up better, taking steps toward equality and safety together.