Security Guard Killed in Shooting at Columbia Bar, Suspect Charged with Manslaughter

A tragic shooting occurred early Thursday morning outside The S Bar and Grill on Garners Ferry Road in Columbia, South Carolina, resulting in the death of 33-year-old Wendell Sholar, a part-time security guard at the establishment. The incident unfolded shortly after midnight as patrons were leaving the bar. Police were already on the scene responding to a separate altercation when a fight broke out between Bernard Jackson Jr., 53, and Sholar in the parking lot. During the altercation, Jackson allegedly pulled out a gun and shot Sholar. Officers arrested Jackson on the spot and rendered aid to Sholar until emergency medical services arrived. Sholar was pronounced dead at the scene.

Sholar's family, including his mother Benita Sholar and sister Bianca Sholar, expressed deep grief and confusion over the charges filed against Jackson, who was charged with manslaughter and possession of a weapon during a violent crime. Benita Sholar questioned why Jackson was not charged with murder, stating, 'He shot my son in front of the police. You can't get more emboldened than that.' The family described Wendell as a hardworking, kind family man who also worked in sales at a local car dealership. Bianca Sholar shared that the day of the shooting was particularly heartbreaking as it coincided with her son's sixth birthday, making the loss even more painful.

The incident was captured on cell phone video and circulated widely online, adding to the family's distress. The shooting at The S Bar and Grill was one of two fatal shootings in Columbia that night. In a separate incident, four people were shot in the downtown Elmwood Park neighborhood, leaving one dead and three others injured. The community is reeling from the violence, with many questioning the legal outcomes and seeking justice for the victims.