Deadly Shooting at San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter: 46-Year-Old Man Killed, Suspect in Custody
SAN DIEGO, CA — A Sunday evening in downtown San Diego turned deadly when a 46-year-old man was fatally shot inside a popular rooftop bar in the Gaslamp Quarter. The incident occurred around 5:15 p.m. on Monday, August 4, 2025 on the third floor of the Cielo Rooftop Lounge, located at 701 Sixth Avenue, according to San Diego Police Lt. Travis Easter.
Multiple 911 calls poured into dispatch, reporting gunfire inside the bustling bar district known for its nightlife, dining, and entertainment. When officers arrived on scene, they discovered a man lying unresponsive in a third-floor hallway of the bar. The victim had suffered at least one gunshot wound and was pronounced dead at the scene.
His identity has not yet been released, pending notification of his next of kin.
Bar Patrons Detain Suspect Before Police Arrival
In a dramatic turn, several individuals outside the venue had already restrained a man believed to be the shooter. Officers arriving at the scene were directed to the suspect, identified as 37-year-old Bryan Tyner of San Diego. Witnesses also pointed officers to a handgun, reportedly recovered from Tyner before authorities arrived.
Tyner was immediately taken into custody without further incident and is expected to be booked into the San Diego County Jail on suspicion of murder.
Lt. Easter praised the swift action of witnesses and bystanders who helped prevent further violence.
“This situation could have escalated even further, but thanks to the fast reaction of individuals on scene and the quick response of our officers, we were able to take a suspect into custody and secure the area,” said Easter.
Investigation Ongoing
Crime scene investigators worked well into the evening, processing the third-floor area where the shooting occurred. Witnesses were interviewed by homicide detectives, and the rooftop lounge was temporarily closed as part of the investigation.
Authorities have not confirmed a motive or the relationship between the victim and the suspect. It remains unclear whether the two men knew each other prior to the incident or if it stemmed from an altercation inside the bar.
The San Diego Police Department’s Homicide Unit is leading the investigation.
Community Reaction and Safety Concerns
The Gaslamp Quarter, a vibrant hub known for its nightlife and weekend crowds, was shaken by the violence. While crime in the area is relatively low compared to other urban districts, Sunday’s fatal shooting has reignited conversations around public safety and security at nightlife venues.
Nearby business owners expressed shock and sadness, with some calling for increased security measures during high-traffic hours.
“We’ve seen fights before, but nothing like this,” said one bar owner who wished to remain anonymous. “It’s tragic and terrifying. We need to make sure patrons and staff feel safe.”
Call for Information
San Diego Police are urging anyone who was in the area at the time of the incident and may have witnessed anything to come forward. They are especially interested in cell phone video or photos that could assist in the investigation.
If you have information related to this case, contact the San Diego Police Department Homicide Unit at (619) 531-2293 or Crime Stoppers at (888) 580-8477.
Incident Summary
- Date: Sunday, August 4, 2025
- Time: Approximately 5:15 p.m.
- Location: Cielo Rooftop Lounge, 701 Sixth Ave., San Diego, CA
- Victim: 46-year-old male (name withheld)
- Suspect: 37-year-old Bryan Tyner
- Status: Suspect in custody, investigation ongoing
Stay with The Chronicle and Times of San Diego for more updates as details develop in this ongoing investigation.