A retired police sergeant went on a shooting rampage at a popular biker bar in Southern California, killing three people and injuring six others. The tragic incident unfolded when the gunman, identified as John Snowling, traveled from Ohio to confront his estranged wife, shooting her in the face before turning his gun on the crowd. Snowling was fatally shot by deputies within minutes of the rampage.
The shooting took place during the bar’s weekly spaghetti night, while a cover band entertained guests. Snowling entered the bar and immediately shot his wife without uttering a word. In the chaos that ensued, some patrons froze while others fled as bullets were fired inside the establishment. The gunman then proceeded to the parking lot, where he continued to indiscriminately fire at people.
The retired police sergeant, aged 59, had served with the Ventura Police Department for nearly three decades before retiring in 2014. His wife, Marie Snowling, had filed for divorce in December 2022, and the proceedings were ongoing at the time of the shooting. The couple had been married for over 30 years and had two adult children.
Authorities revealed that John Snowling had used two guns initially and later retrieved two more from his truck. All four firearms, including three handguns and a shotgun, were purchased legally. The victims included John Leehey, 67, and two others who remain unidentified. The woman dining with Marie Snowling was among those killed. Marie herself was conscious and speaking but remained hospitalized.
The tragic incident has left the community shocked and grieving. Cook’s Corner, the biker bar where the shooting occurred, has long been a gathering place for motorcyclists, offering live music, open-mic nights, and a friendly atmosphere. Located in Trabuco Canyon, the oldest motorcycle bar in Southern California sits at the intersection of two picturesque highways and attracts a diverse range of visitors.
Witnesses described the shooting as a horrifying and senseless act of violence. As news of the incident spread, people expressed their condolences to the victims’ families and survivors, as well as gratitude to the responding deputies. The investigation into the shooting is still ongoing, as authorities work to piece together the events leading up to the tragic incident.
This shocking shooting serves as a reminder of the devastating impact that acts of violence can have on communities. It highlights the importance of addressing underlying issues such as domestic disputes and mental health concerns to prevent such tragic incidents from occurring in the future. As the community mourns the loss of innocent lives, support and unity are crucial in healing and moving forward.
