Saginaw Man Fatally Shot 16 Times Outside After-Hours Club in Buena Vista Township
BUENA VISTA TWP, MI — A Saginaw man was tragically shot and killed early Sunday morning outside a known after-hours club in Buena Vista Township, marking yet another grim chapter in the community’s struggle with unregulated nightlife venues and escalating gun violence.
The incident took place around 3:53 a.m. on June 1 at 3238 Wadsworth Road, a location known informally to locals as “The Pole Barn.” Police confirmed the man was shot 16 times as he was leaving the premises, succumbing to his injuries on the scene. His identity has not yet been officially released pending family notification.
A Known Trouble Spot
Buena Vista Township Police Detective Russ Pahssen described The Pole Barn as a recurring problem in the township — a site that regularly transforms into an unlicensed after-hours club, where food, alcohol, and entertainment are provided without oversight or regulation.
“This location has hosted large, late-night gatherings where hundreds of people show up. We’ve responded to numerous calls in the past,” said Det. Pahssen. “Despite ongoing efforts to monitor it, the site continues to operate outside legal bounds.”
The events held at the Pole Barn have long been a cause for concern among law enforcement and community leaders. Residents nearby have reported disturbances, fights, loud music, and reckless behavior, all of which are exacerbated by the lack of formal control and safety measures.
Community Shocked and Saddened
News of the shooting has sent shockwaves through the Saginaw and Buena Vista Township communities. The sheer brutality of the act — sixteen gunshots fired at one individual — has left many disturbed, and prompted renewed calls for stronger oversight and intervention at illegal event venues.
The victim is believed to have been attempting to leave the gathering when he was ambushed in the parking lot. At this time, no suspects have been arrested, and investigators are seeking witnesses who were present at the scene to come forward with any information that may assist in the case.
“This wasn’t just a shooting. This was an execution,” said one local resident who lives near the venue. “People are afraid. This kind of violence affects the entire community.”
Calls for Action and Accountability
In the wake of the killing, community activists and law enforcement alike are demanding accountability for the ongoing operation of illegal venues like The Pole Barn, where safety protocols are virtually nonexistent and lawlessness is allowed to flourish after dark.
Local authorities are considering increased enforcement, including building code violations, fire safety inspections, and potential property seizure to prevent further events from being held at the location.
“It’s not just about this one incident,” said another Buena Vista official. “We have to recognize the broader risk to public safety that these unlicensed venues pose. We cannot wait until another life is taken.”
Moving Forward
As investigators continue to gather evidence and canvass the area for leads, police are urging anyone with information to contact the Buena Vista Township Police Department or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers.
Meanwhile, loved ones of the victim are mourning an unimaginable loss — a life taken far too soon under tragic and violent circumstances. Vigils are being planned in both Saginaw and Buena Vista as the community grapples with grief and calls for justice.