UPDATE: Orange County prosecutors have confirmed that deputies acted justifiably in the fatal shootout with gunman John Patrick Snowling during a violent rampage at Cook’s Corner on August 23, 2023. The conclusion, released by the Orange County District Attorney’s Office on Tuesday, comes more than two years after the tragedy that left three dead and six injured.
The detailed report, which includes body camera footage, reveals harrowing moments from the chaotic scene. Snowling, a 60-year-old retired officer from the Ventura Police Department, entered the popular biker bar with both a revolver and a semiautomatic handgun, targeting his estranged wife, Marie Snowling. Witnesses reported that he had previously threatened her life, saying she would be dead within a year due to stress.
As Snowling opened fire, he shot Marie in the jaw, but she survived. The report describes a frantic situation where Snowling continued his assault inside the bar, firing indiscriminately before fleeing outside. He confronted a pregnant woman hiding in a truck, but shockingly allowed her to escape after she pleaded for her life.
Deputies responded to emergency calls, quickly engaging Snowling in a firefight. The report states that deputies Brandon Saunders, Christian Moreno, Brandon Espinosa, Daniel Serrano, Mathew Harm, Jesus Carrasco, and Juan Contreras took cover as Snowling fired upon them with a shotgun. “I was in fear for my life,” Espinosa told investigators, underlining the terror faced by law enforcement as they confronted the shooter.
The report details that the deputies were justified in their response, noting Snowling refused to comply with orders to drop his weapons and was a lethal threat to both officers and civilians. Ultimately, they fatally shot him when he emerged to fire again. A loaded Beretta 950B, .25-caliber pistol was found on him, confirming the imminent danger he posed.
This incident has left a lasting impact on the community, with memories of the chaos lingering for both victims and first responders. The emotional toll is evident as families of victims continue to cope with their loss. The report serves as a sobering reminder of the risks faced by law enforcement in the line of duty and the human cost of such violence.
Residents and officials are now reflecting on the tragic events, emphasizing the need for continued support for victims and their families. As the community seeks healing, the findings from the District Attorney’s report provide clarity on the deputies’ actions, underscoring that they acted to protect lives during a harrowing crisis.
For ongoing updates on this story and more developments, stay tuned.
