A Seattle beer garden employee has been accused of fatally shooting a co-worker inside the business after an early morning argument, according to court documents and police statements.
Authorities allege that 20-year-old Lucas Logan shot 25-year-old Quusaa “Q” Margarsa multiple times inside The Growler Guys beer garden in Seattle on May 9. Prosecutors say the shooting occurred after the two employees and a woman spent several hours together after the business had closed.
Logan later turned himself in to police with his attorney, who argued in court that the shooting was an act of self-defense and defense of another person.
Investigation
Police said Margarsa’s body was discovered inside The Growler Guys when another employee arrived to open the establishment later that morning.
According to investigators, Margarsa had finished closing duties at the beer garden around 1:30 a.m. before later visiting Lava Hookah Lounge in northeast Seattle.
Authorities said surveillance footage showed Margarsa, Logan, and an unidentified woman arriving back at The Growler Guys around 5:25 a.m.
Because Margarsa had closed the business earlier, he reportedly still had the keys needed to enter the building.
Investigators believe the three remained inside for approximately one hour drinking alcohol and possibly using narcotics before an argument began around 6:40 a.m.
Allegations
According to the probable cause statement filed in court, the dispute centered on whether the unidentified woman would remain at the bar.
Investigators allege Margarsa wanted the woman to stay while asking Logan to leave the establishment.
Court documents state that as Margarsa turned toward the door with keys in hand, Logan allegedly pulled a handgun from a crossbody bag and fired multiple shots into Margarsa’s back.
Prosecutors emphasized that Margarsa was facing away from Logan at the time of the shooting.
| Case Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Victim | Quusaa “Q” Margarsa, 25 |
| Suspect | Lucas Logan, 20 |
| Location | The Growler Guys, Seattle |
| Date | May 9 |
| Main Charge | Homicide investigation |
| Bail Amount | $2 million |
The King County Prosecutor’s Office argued that physical evidence at the scene did not support a self-defense claim.
Prosecutor Chris Anderson told the court that Margarsa was discovered holding a key rather than a weapon.
“Mr. Margarsa was found with the key to that door in his dead hand. Not a weapon – a key,” Anderson said during the hearing.
Defense
Logan turned himself in to authorities on May 11 alongside defense attorney Pete Mazzone.
During a court appearance, Mazzone argued that Logan acted to protect himself and the unidentified woman inside the business.
“This is a clear case of not only self-defense, but defense of others,” Mazzone told the court.
According to the defense, Logan and the woman believed they were unable to leave the building peacefully because the entrance door had been locked.
Mazzone stated that there was concern about being trapped inside the establishment during the confrontation.
Investigators have not publicly disclosed whether additional evidence, including surveillance footage from inside the business, supports either version of events.
Court
A judge set Logan’s bail at $2 million as the case proceeds through the legal system.
Court records indicate prosecutors are treating the case as an intentional shooting rather than an accidental discharge or spontaneous altercation.
Authorities have not yet announced whether additional charges could be filed as the investigation continues.
Seattle police and prosecutors are expected to review surveillance footage, forensic evidence, witness statements, and digital records as part of the ongoing case.
Community Reaction
The death of Margarsa has drawn attention from members of Seattle’s hospitality and nightlife community, where friends and co-workers described him as well known in local social circles.
The case has also renewed discussions about workplace safety and after-hours gatherings at bars and nightlife establishments.
Law enforcement officials have not identified the woman who was present during the incident, and investigators have not indicated whether she may testify in future court proceedings.
As the investigation continues, prosecutors and defense attorneys are expected to present competing narratives regarding what occurred inside the beer garden during the early morning hours before the shooting.
The case is scheduled to move forward in King County Superior Court in the coming weeks.
FAQs
Who was Quusaa Margarsa?
He was a Seattle beer garden employee.
Who is accused in the shooting?
Authorities charged 20-year-old Lucas Logan.
Where did the shooting happen?
It occurred inside The Growler Guys in Seattle.
What is the defense claiming?
Logan’s attorney says it was self-defense.
How much is Logan’s bail?
The court set bail at $2 million.
