Man Shot And Killed At Rooftop Lounge In San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter; Suspect Arrested at Scene

A Sunday evening out in San Diego’s historic Gaslamp Quarter turned tragic when a man was shot and killed inside a popular rooftop bar. 

San Diego Police say the shooting occurred around 5:18pm on August 3, 2025, at Cielo Rooftop Lounge, a third-floor venue atop the Theatre Box building located at 701 Sixth Avenue. According to the San Diego Police Department, officers were dispatched following multiple 911 calls reporting gunfire inside the rooftop bar. When they arrived, they found 37-year-old Bryan Tyner of San Diego being physically detained on the sidewalk outside the venue by a group of people, who also directed police to a handgun reportedly taken from him.

Inside the building, officers discovered a man in a third-floor hallway suffering from at least one gunshot wound. Despite lifesaving efforts from first responders, the victim 0 identified only as a 46-year-old Black male - was pronounced dead at the scene. The victim’s identity is being withheld pending family notification.

Investigators believe the incident began as a personal altercation between the two men inside Cielo Rooftop Lounge. "It appears there was some kind of fight or dispute that escalated, resulting in the suspect pulling out a firearm and shooting the victim," said SDPD Lt. Lou Maggi at a press conference Sunday evening. Maggi emphasized there is currently no indication the shooting was gang-related.
Police praised the swift actions of bystanders, though it remains unclear whether they were bar patrons, staff, or security personnel. "We have to give credit to the bystanders that were here," Maggi said. "The subject was already detained before officers even got here." Tyner was arrested at the scene and booked into San Diego County Jail on one count of murder. His motive remains under investigation.

The Theatre Box building, home to multiple nightlife venues including Cielo and Cowboy Cantina, was cordoned off with yellow tape Sunday evening as investigators canvassed the scene, gathered surveillance footage, and interviewed witnesses. Police say the investigation is ongoing and ask anyone with information to contact the Homicide Unit at 619.531.2293 or Crime Stoppers at 888.580.8477.
As one of the busiest nights of the week in the Gaslamp was interrupted by violence, the incident has reignited concerns over safety in San Diego’s bustling downtown entertainment district. Cielo Rooftop Lounge, known for its upscale ambiance and panoramic views, has not issued a public statement.

This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as new information becomes available.

Originally published on August 3, 2025.