Transgender Patrons Injured in Targeted Pellet Gun Attacks Outside San Diego LGBTQ+ Bars

In the early morning hours of 2025-11-15, three women—at least two of whom identify as transgender—were injured in two pellet gun attacks targeting patrons outside LGBTQ+ bars in San Diego’s Bankers Hill and Hillcrest neighborhoods, according to local police and multiple eyewitnesses . The first incident occurred around 1:00 a.m. outside the SRO Lounge, a well-known LGBTQ+ bar in Bankers Hill. Witnesses described a dark pickup truck driving slowly past the bar, with a man in the back rolling down a window and firing a pellet gun at the group gathered outside .

One transgender woman, who requested anonymity for her safety, recounted stepping outside for fresh air with several others before the shots rang out. “I couldn’t move… I felt the bullets kind of bypass someone, you know, they’re shooting at others,” she told reporters . She was struck by pellets, and another patron suffered an injury to her hand. A bartender at the scene described hearing a series of “pop, pop, pop” sounds before seeing patrons scramble for cover, with one woman bleeding from her hand .

Shortly after, a similar attack unfolded in the 1000 block of University Avenue in the Hillcrest neighborhood, another area known for its vibrant LGBTQ+ nightlife. Police say the pattern of the attacks suggests a coordinated effort, and they are investigating possible links to previous unsolved incidents at LGBTQ+ venues .

The attacks have left many in San Diego’s LGBTQ+ community shaken and fearful. “This is supposed to be a safe place for us, 100%,” said one bartender, reflecting widespread frustration and concern . Both victims at the SRO Lounge were confirmed to be members of the transgender community, and witnesses expressed little doubt that the motive was rooted in anti-transgender or anti-LGBTQ+ animus .

San Diego police have stated they are exploring whether these pellet gun shootings are connected to a string of similar attacks in recent years, some of which targeted LGBTQ+ businesses and events in the Hillcrest area. In one previous case, a 19-year-old man pled guilty to assault after a series of pellet gun attacks outside LGBTQ+ establishments . Several other shootings, including one in which a community member sustained a serious eye injury, remain unsolved .

Authorities are urging anyone with information about the recent incidents to come forward and contact the San Diego Police Department . Community leaders are also calling for increased vigilance and support for affected patrons and businesses.

The San Diego attacks underscore ongoing concerns regarding the safety of transgender people and the broader LGBTQ+ community in public venues. While LGBTQ+ bars and clubs have historically served as sanctuaries against discrimination, recent years have seen an uptick in targeted violence and harassment .

Advocates emphasize the importance of affirming and inclusive responses from law enforcement and city officials. “No one should fear for their safety simply for being themselves or gathering with their community,” stated a local LGBTQ+ rights organization following the attacks . Calls for increased security, community education, and solidarity have been amplified in the aftermath, as transgender patrons and allies work together to reclaim safe spaces and demand accountability.

The incidents in San Diego highlight the resilience of LGBTQ+ communities in the face of adversity and the urgent need for continued vigilance, advocacy, and support for transgender and gender-diverse people nationwide .