COLUMBIA, SC — June 6, 2025 — Tragic Shooting Outside S Bar Claims Life of Wendell F. Sholar, Suspect Bernard Jackson, Jr. Arrested
The Columbia community is in shock following a violent and deadly incident that occurred in the early hours of Friday, June 6, 2025, outside S Bar, a popular nightlife destination on the city’s busy entertainment strip. A confrontation between two men escalated into a fatal shooting, leaving 33-year-old Wendell F. Sholar dead and resulting in the arrest of 53-year-old Bernard Jackson, Jr., who now faces serious criminal charges in connection to the killing.
According to the Columbia Police Department, officers were dispatched shortly after 2 a.m. following reports of gunfire in the parking area outside the bar. Upon arrival, they found Sholar suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Despite the efforts of first responders and emergency medical personnel, Sholar was pronounced dead at the scene.
Witnesses described a chaotic and emotionally charged atmosphere, with several patrons fleeing the area as police secured the scene and launched a preliminary investigation. Investigators quickly identified Bernard Jackson, Jr. as a suspect. He was located and taken into custody shortly after the incident without further incident. Authorities confirmed that a firearm believed to have been used in the shooting was recovered.
The motives behind the altercation remain under investigation, but initial reports suggest that the two men knew each other and that the confrontation was personal in nature. Police have not released full details but are continuing to review surveillance footage, interview witnesses, and gather forensic evidence to determine the sequence of events that led to the shooting.
A Life Lost Too Soon
Wendell F. Sholar, known to friends and family as a vibrant, ambitious, and caring man, was a well-known figure in his community. At just 33 years old, he had a reputation for his entrepreneurial spirit and was deeply involved in mentoring youth in the Columbia area. His sudden and violent death has sent waves of grief through a community that knew him not only for his drive but for his generosity and authenticity.
“Wendell had a big heart,” said longtime friend Terrell Banks. “He was always looking out for people — giving advice, checking in on folks, always pushing others to do better. He didn’t deserve this.”
Family members, still reeling from the loss, described Wendell as someone who lit up a room with his smile and had big plans for the future. He was said to be pursuing several business ventures and was passionate about giving back to underserved neighborhoods in Columbia.
“Wendell was our son, our brother, our friend,” said his cousin in a statement shared on social media. “His life was stolen from us in a senseless act of violence. We are devastated, and we ask for privacy and prayers as we try to navigate this pain.”
Arrest and Charges
Bernard Jackson, Jr., 53, was formally arrested and is currently being held at the Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center. He faces charges including murder, possession of a firearm during the commission of a violent crime, and potentially additional charges pending the results of the investigation.
Jackson is expected to appear in court in the coming days for a bond hearing. Legal analysts note that, given the serious nature of the charges and the public setting of the incident, prosecutors are likely to pursue the case with intensity.
Police have not confirmed whether Jackson had a prior criminal record, though public records searches are underway. Columbia Police Chief Melron Kelly emphasized the city’s commitment to ensuring justice in the case.
“We are heartbroken for the family of Mr. Sholar,” Chief Kelly stated. “We are conducting a thorough investigation to ensure that those responsible are held accountable. Gun violence has no place in our city, especially not in spaces where people come to unwind and enjoy themselves.”
Community Response
The deadly incident has reignited conversations about nightlife safety, gun violence, and the broader challenges facing Columbia and other urban centers dealing with similar tragedies. Local leaders, clergy, and violence prevention groups have begun mobilizing efforts to both honor Sholar’s life and address the root causes of violence in the community.
A candlelight vigil is being planned outside S Bar for this weekend, where friends, family, and supporters will gather to remember Wendell Sholar and call for peace and unity. S Bar released a statement expressing condolences to the victim’s family and reaffirming their commitment to working with authorities to maintain a safe environment.
As Columbia mourns yet another life lost to gun violence, the call for change grows louder. The tragedy of June 6 serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of conflict left unresolved and the critical need for ongoing efforts to ensure community safety and support.
The investigation remains active. Anyone with information related to the incident is encouraged to contact the Columbia Police Department or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers.
Wendell F. Sholar is survived by his parents, siblings, and a host of friends and loved ones who will now carry forward his memory — a man full of potential, generosity, and hope whose life ended far too soon.