Former Police Officer Kills Three in Trabuco Canyon Bar Shooting
A tragic incident unfolded on Wednesday night at a beloved local bar in Trabuco Canyon, where a former police officer turned gunman took the lives of three people and injured six others. The Orange County Sheriff’s Department confirmed that the assailant was John Snowling, a retired Ventura police sergeant. The motive behind his heinous act was primarily targeting his estranged wife, who frequented the bar, according to officials.
The harrowing event took place during the bar’s weekly $8 spaghetti night, which attracts families to enjoy a pleasant evening together. John Snowling, 59, entered the establishment armed with two handguns and wasted no time in firing at his wife, causing a gunshot wound. Tragically, the woman dining with her also fell victim to the frenzy, losing her life. Shockingly, there was no altercation or exchange before Snowling indiscriminately targeted his estranged wife, as confirmed by Sheriff Don Barnes.
After unleashing chaos within Cook’s Corner, Snowling proceeded to target other patrons, both inside and outside the bar. At one point, the assailant returned to his truck in an upper parking lot, only to be confronted by another individual from the bar, whom Snowling also shot, leading to their tragic demise. While deputies promptly arrived at the scene, only two minutes after the initial 911 call, Snowling engaged in a shootout with law enforcement officers, firing upon multiple patrol vehicles.
In the ensuing gunfight, the life of Snowling was ultimately claimed by deputies’ gunfire, as declared by Sheriff Barnes. Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer confirmed that seven deputies discharged their weapons, firing a total of approximately 75 shots to neutralize the threat.
Law enforcement officers subsequently retrieved four firearms at the crime scene, all legally acquired by Snowling. The arsenal included two pistols, a revolver, and a shotgun. The deceased victims have been partially identified, with one of them being John Leehey, 67, from Irvine. The identities of the other two victims have not been disclosed until their next of kin are notified.
The community is left mourning this heart-wrenching tragedy as the devastating impact of gun violence resonates once again. The loss of innocent lives serves as a somber reminder of the need for continued efforts to prevent such senseless acts from occurring. Authorities are actively investigating the incident and seeking to understand the underlying factors motivating this former police officer’s violent actions.
Out of respect for the victims and their grieving families, it is crucial that utmost sensitivity be demonstrated during these difficult times. The impact of such an event extends far beyond the bar and highlights the importance of community support and solidarity. As the investigation progresses, it is hoped that justice will be served, providing some solace to those affected by this senseless act of violence.
