Anthony Torres, also known by his drag persona "Bubbles," was a well-known figure in San Francisco’s LGBTQ+ nightlife and art scene. On the morning of September 9, 2017, Torres, 44, was fatally shot near the intersection of Larkin and Myrtle streets in the Tenderloin neighborhood. He was killed following an altercation that reportedly began outside the New Century Strip Club.
Witnesses indicated that the conflict escalated, with Torres being chased across the street before being shot multiple times by the assailant. Despite his vibrant presence in the community, the investigation into his death did not initially classify the incident as a hate crime, although many of his friends and supporters believed otherwise due to his gender-nonconforming identity.
Torres was beloved for his bold and eccentric personality. He was often seen in flamboyant outfits, including large wigs and skimpy women’s clothing, and he was known for handing out free snow cones and cotton candy at local events. His friends described him as a gentle and creative soul, but one unafraid to speak his mind loudly and directly. His plans to model swimsuits the night of his murder added further tragedy to his death, as he had been preparing for a move to Berlin to pursue his artistic career.
The murder deeply affected the LGBTQ+ and artistic communities in San Francisco, sparking vigils and calls for justice. In January 2018, the San Francisco Police Department identified Hieu Trung Nguyen, 30, as the primary suspect in the case and issued an arrest warrant. Nguyen, described as armed and dangerous, had not yet been apprehended at the time of the warrant's issuance.
