California bar shooting leaves 9 shot, 4 dead, including gunman.
Tragic Shooting at Historical Biker Bar Leaves Four Dead
In a devastating incident on August 23 evening, a shooting took place at a beloved historical biker bar in Orange County, resulting in the loss of four lives and leaving six others injured. Shockingly, the gunman responsible for the attack was identified as John Snowling, a retired police officer.
The 59-year-old suspect, who served in the Ventura Police Department, retired as a sergeant in 2014. The Orange County District Attorney’s office confirmed his identity. The names of the deceased victims have not yet been released, but more details will be provided in a press conference held by the Orange County Sheriff’s Department.
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Undersheriff Jeff Hallock expressed his condolences to the victims’ families and the Trabuco Canyon community, emphasizing the significance of Cook’s Corner, the location of the tragic incident, to the community.
The shooting occurred at Cook’s Corner on Santiago Canyon Rd. Deputies swiftly responded to multiple 911 calls, arriving at the scene within minutes. They were forced to fatally shoot the gunman to protect innocent lives.
According to Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer, the shooter had come to the bar in search of his estranged wife, who frequented the establishment. The couple was in the midst of a divorce, adding a tragic layer to this already heartbreaking incident.
Marie Snowling, Mr. Snowling’s wife, sustained a gunshot wound to her jaw and was in critical condition. She was transferred to the University of California–Irvine Medical Center for further treatment.
The motive behind the shooting remains unknown. Chief Brian Fennessy of the Orange County Fire Authority confirmed that four people were pronounced dead at the scene, while six others were taken to the Providence Mission Hospital for treatment. Two victims, including Ms. Snowling, were listed in critical condition.
Mark Johnson, pianist for the M-Street Band performing at the bar during the incident, revealed that two band members were among the injured but in stable condition. The shooting occurred during the bar’s popular weekly spaghetti dinner night.
As investigations continue, roads leading to the intersection near the restaurant have been blocked. A command center has been established at the nearby Saddleback Church to coordinate law enforcement efforts.
State Senator Dave Min expressed his heartbreak over the incident, highlighting the unfortunate reality of mass shootings even in seemingly safe areas. The Ventura Police Department also extended their condolences to the victims’ families and praised the swift response of the Orange County deputies.
This tragic event serves as a reminder of the need for continued efforts to prevent such senseless acts of violence.
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