Tragedy Strikes After Night Out at Gaslamp Rooftop Lounge as Navy Veteran Fatally Shot

Navy Veteran Identified as Victim in Downtown Shooting

Authorities have identified the man who was shot and killed last weekend inside a downtown building in the heart of San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter. The incident occurred shortly after the victim visited a popular rooftop bar in the area.

The victim, 46-year-old Antwan Blu, was found with fatal gunshot wounds in a third-floor hallway at 701 Sixth Avenue around 5:30 p.m. on Sunday. Officers responded swiftly to reports of gunfire and discovered Blu mortally wounded at the scene.

According to officials, Blu died before he could receive any medical attention.

A Life Remembered

Antwan Blu was more than just a name in a police report. A Navy veteran with a deep commitment to causes supporting fellow veterans, Blu had also built a small business and was embracing fatherhood, having recently welcomed a baby daughter just four months ago.

"This is a horrific occurrence, and it is inconceivable how much impact it is having on the family," said Deputy District Attorney Oscar Hagstrom. "They’re going through a very difficult time.”

Suspect Detained at Scene

When officers arrived, bystanders had already detained 37-year-old Brian Tyner on the sidewalk outside the building. Witnesses directed police to a handgun that had allegedly been taken from him.

Tyner was arrested at the scene on suspicion of murder. At his arraignment on Wednesday, he pleaded not guilty to a murder charge and a misdemeanor count of carrying a concealed firearm. He is currently being held in county jail without bail.

Investigation Links Shooting to Rooftop Lounge Visit

Investigators have established that both Blu and Tyner had spent time at the Cielo Rooftop Lounge, located on the fifth floor of the building, earlier that evening. The bar is accessed via an elevator on the third floor — the same floor where the shooting occurred.

“The third floor also contains a comedy club, which was closed at the time,” said San Diego Police Lt. Lou Maggi.

Although the exact motive behind the shooting remains unknown, police have confirmed that the violent incident occurred outside the premises of any currently operating business.

Businesses Respond and Cooperate

The building where the shooting occurred houses several businesses, including restaurants and the rooftop lounge. Following the incident, the Cielo Rooftop Lounge issued a public statement expressing sympathy for those affected.

"Though not directly involved, we recognize our responsibility as part of this building community," the business shared on social media. “We are fully cooperating with law enforcement and will continue working with authorities to ensure everyone's safety.”

Legal Proceedings Continue

Tyner is scheduled to appear in court again on August 14. The investigation into the shooting remains ongoing, with authorities continuing to seek clarity on what led to the tragic loss of a life.

As the community reels from the violence, the memory of Antwan Blu — a veteran, businessman, and new father — remains a somber reminder of a night that turned devastating far too quickly.