Gay Man Beaten in Santa Cruz, Calif. Nightclub

A gay-friendly bar in Santa Cruz, Calif., was the scene of a potential hate crime when a man was attacked Sunday evening by multiple assailants.

According to The Mercury News, an unidentified gay man said he was beaten inside the Blue Lagoon, where he suffered bruises, cuts, and a possible broken nose. Local police have two suspects are in custody, and they are seeking a warrant for the arrest of a third individual.

Prior to the assault, the victim said he had been verbally taunted about his sexuality outside the club. Santa Cruz police are investigating the incident as a hate crime. Last year the progressive Northern Californian town investigated eight potential hate crimes.

"There is absolutely no excuse for targeting someone based on their sexual orientation, Santa Cruz police spokesman Zach Friend. "It is an unfortunate commentary that some haven't moved beyond this type of intolerance in our community."