A shooting took place at a biker bar in southern California, resulting in three deaths and five people wounded, according to the Orange County sheriff’s department. The suspected gunman, who was a retired police officer from the Ventura police department, was also killed by deputies during the incident. The shooting happened after 7pm at Cook’s Corner, a popular gathering place for motorcycle enthusiasts in rural Trabuco Canyon. Law enforcement arrived at the scene within two minutes of the first report of the shooting and engaged in gunfire with the shooter, who was neutralized within four minutes.
The gunman, identified as a retired officer who had served at the Ventura police department from 1986 to 2014, was not detailed in the initial news conference by Orange County undersheriff Jeff Hallock. Authorities are still in the process of gathering information and interviewing witnesses to understand how the shooting unfolded.
Among those killed, four people including the shooter were declared dead at the scene. Six others were taken to the hospital, with five of them having gunshot wounds. Two individuals were in critical condition and were admitted to Providence Mission hospital in Mission Viejo, a trauma center.
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Cook’s Corner, recognized as the oldest motorcycle bar in southern California, had been hosting patrons earlier in the day for drinks and meals. The establishment has a history of serving as a community gathering spot and features regular events such as Wednesday spaghetti nights and live music performances.
Governor Gavin Newsom was keeping a watch on the situation and coordinating with local officials for updates. The incident drew a significant response from law enforcement and emergency services, with numerous patrol cars and ambulances present at the scene. The Orange County sheriff’s department described the incident scene as stable in a statement released hours after the initial report of the shooting.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the families involved and those injured.
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