The Orange County Sheriff’s Office has officially identified the man and woman who were tragically shot and killed at Cook’s Corner in Trabuco Canyon. The victims have been identified as Tonya Clark, 49, of Scottsdale, Arizona, and Glen Sprowl Jr., 53, of Stanton. These individuals lost their lives when a retired sergeant from the Ventura Police Department entered the bar and opened fire. The suspect, John Snowling, first shot his wife and then randomly targeted others at the bar. During a news conference, it was revealed that urban planner and landscape architect John Leehey, 67, from Irvine, was also among the fatal victims.
According to Orange County Sheriff Don Barnes, Snowling drove to Trabuco Canyon from Ohio, armed with two legally registered handguns. He walked into Cook’s Corner and shot his wife without uttering a word. As patrons enjoyed the $8 Spaghetti Night and live music, Snowling then proceeded to randomly shoot eight additional individuals, three of whom lost their lives. After the initial attack, Snowling returned to his truck in the upper parking lot to retrieve another legally registered handgun and a shotgun. Barnes provided these harrowing details during a news conference that took place on Thursday afternoon.
Devin Pulfer and Joe Vondracek, who were at the bar during the shooting, shared their terrifying experience. They recounted being just 15 feet away from Snowling as he carried out his rampage. They witnessed the loss of three lives and the injury of six others. Nancy Hughes also spoke about her friend Marie Snowling, a regular at Cook’s Corner, who was injured by her estranged husband during the shooting.
Lucas Orosco, another witness to the tragedy, had to abandon his motorcycle as he fled from the scene. The community of Trabuco Canyon was deeply affected by this heinous act. The news coverage captured emotional moments from individuals mourning the loss of their loved ones and vowing to come together in support.
During the chaos, a pregnant waitress pleaded for her life, and Snowling allowed her to escape. As Snowling made his way to his truck, he was confronted by a courageous man who ultimately lost his life. Law enforcement encountered Snowling outside, and after he fired at them with a shotgun, they returned fire, ultimately killing him. Snowling’s wife, Marie Snowling, survived her injury and was receiving treatment at UCI Medical Center.
The shocking incident also shed light on the personal struggles between Snowling and his wife, as Marie had filed for divorce in December 2022. Friends and acquaintances described Snowling as a “crazy husband” who struggled to cope with the separation. The shooting also impacted several members of the community, including members of the M Street Band, who were performing at the bar when the incident occurred.
Law enforcement and emergency services swiftly responded to the scene, with over 70 Orange County sheriff’s vehicles and 100 deputies arriving within minutes of the initial call. The quick action of these first responders played a crucial role in ending the violence.
The investigation extended to Snowling’s residence in Camarillo, where authorities conducted a search. Details of the evidence found have not been disclosed. The backyard of the property appeared neglected, with a nearly dried-up pool and jacuzzi, as well as visible gardening and pool equipment.
The tragedy sent shockwaves through the tight-knit Trabuco Canyon community. Cook’s Corner, known as a gathering spot for individuals of all backgrounds, was seen as a “neutral ground.” It sits just a few miles away from Saddleback Church in Lake Forest, with church leaders organizing a prayer outreach in response to the devastating events. The biking community, deeply affected by the incident, has also planned a memorial, although specific details have yet to be determined.
Denial of responsibility! VigourTimes is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
