Wendell F. Sholar Fatally Shot During Parking Lot Altercation Outside Columbia’s S Bar; Bernard Jackson, Jr. Arrested at Scene and Charged with Manslaughter
COLUMBIA, S.C. — A tragic act of gun violence claimed the life of Wendell F. Sholar, 33, early Friday morning after a confrontation erupted in the parking lot of a popular Columbia bar. Police say Bernard Jackson, Jr., 53, is now facing manslaughter charges following the fatal shooting, which unfolded in full view of law enforcement officers stationed nearby.
The incident occurred shortly after midnight outside the S Bar, located in the 7500 block of Garners Ferry Road, a busy corridor known for its nightlife and late-night gatherings. The Columbia Police Department (CPD) confirmed that officers were already on scene as the bar was closing when a dispute among patrons turned violent — ultimately ending in deadly gunfire.
Moments Before the Shooting
Police say they were conducting routine security monitoring in the area as the S Bar prepared to close its doors for the evening. CPD has frequently maintained a presence near high-traffic establishments during peak hours to manage crowd control and deter disturbances.
Around 12:30 a.m., officers observed what began as a verbal dispute between a group of individuals in the parking lot. Witnesses described raised voices, flaring tempers, and a chaotic scene as bar patrons exited the establishment. The situation escalated rapidly, and within moments, a physical altercation ensued between multiple individuals.
As officers began intervening to separate those involved, Bernard Jackson, Jr. allegedly pulled out a firearm and opened fire, striking Wendell Sholar. Officers immediately called for medical assistance and secured the scene.
Victim Succumbs to Injuries Despite Medical Efforts
Emergency medical personnel arrived promptly and transported Sholar to a local hospital. Despite life-saving efforts, he was later pronounced dead at the facility. Authorities have not specified the number of times Sholar was struck, but a scheduled autopsy is expected to provide more details on the fatal injuries.
The Columbia Police Department formally identified Wendell F. Sholar as the victim later Friday morning. According to those who knew him, Sholar was a longtime Columbia resident known for his quiet demeanor and love for music. Friends and family members have expressed shock and devastation over his sudden death.
“He was just out trying to have a good time,” said one friend who asked not to be named. “This wasn’t supposed to happen to him.”
Suspect Detained Immediately at the Scene
Thanks to the swift response by law enforcement already at the scene, Bernard Jackson, Jr. was detained immediately after the shooting. He was taken into custody without resistance and transported for questioning. CPD investigators say Jackson remained at the scene and did not attempt to flee, though no motive has been publicly disclosed.
Later that same afternoon, Jackson was formally charged with manslaughter — a felony under South Carolina law indicating an unlawful killing carried out without premeditation or malice. He was also charged with possession of a weapon during a violent crime, an offense that carries additional penalties if the underlying crime involved the use of a firearm.
Jackson is currently being held at Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center, where he awaits a bond hearing. No attorney has been publicly named as representing him.
Unanswered Questions and Active Investigation
While an arrest has been made, the CPD stressed that the investigation is still active and ongoing. Authorities are currently interviewing witnesses, reviewing security footage from the S Bar and nearby businesses, and reconstructing the sequence of events that led to the deadly encounter.
At this time, police have not confirmed whether Sholar and Jackson knew each other before the altercation. They have also not detailed what specifically triggered the dispute or what role each individual played in the moments leading up to the shooting.
“We are still working to establish the full context of what happened that night,” said CPD spokesperson Officer Brittany Harris. “Although we have made an arrest, we are committed to gathering all available facts and evidence to ensure a thorough and accurate prosecution.”
Investigators are encouraging anyone who witnessed the incident or has additional information — including cellphone videos or social media posts from the scene — to come forward. Anonymous tips can be submitted via Crime Stoppers at 1-888-CRIME-SC or directly to the Columbia Police Department.
A Community Mourns Another Life Lost to Violence
In the aftermath of Sholar’s death, friends and family have begun to gather outside the S Bar, leaving flowers and lighting candles in his memory. His name now joins a growing list of young men in Columbia whose lives have been cut short due to gun violence.
Community activists and local leaders are calling for renewed efforts to reduce violence in and around nightlife areas. Friday’s shooting, occurring while police were already present, has raised questions about security practices and the ability to prevent escalations even when law enforcement is nearby.
“This tragedy shows us that even with a police presence, it only takes a split second for lives to be destroyed,” said Jamal Rivers, a community organizer and advocate for gun reform in the Midlands. “We need to do more than just respond. We need to prevent.”
Local Officials and Neighborhood Groups Speak Out
The Garners Ferry corridor, while home to thriving businesses and restaurants, has been the scene of multiple disturbances and violent incidents in recent years. Friday’s shooting has renewed calls from local neighborhood associations for stricter oversight of bars and nightclubs operating in the area.
“We’re not trying to shut down anyone’s business,” said Tricia Wilkins, president of a nearby homeowners’ association. “But if your business becomes a magnet for violence, something has to change. Our safety should not come second to profits.”
City Council members have also expressed concern, with one official confirming plans to meet with CPD leadership and bar owners in the coming days to discuss possible changes to closing procedures, security personnel requirements, and crowd control measures.
What’s Next in the Legal Process
As of now, Bernard Jackson, Jr. has not entered a plea, and a court date has not yet been announced. The Richland County Solicitor’s Office will review evidence gathered by CPD and determine how to proceed with prosecution.
Under South Carolina law, manslaughter carries a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison, while the accompanying weapons charge can add additional years, depending on the circumstances.
Legal experts note that Jackson’s fate could depend heavily on whether the court determines the shooting was provoked, accidental, or committed in the heat of passion. A grand jury could eventually be tasked with weighing the evidence and deciding whether to indict Jackson on more serious charges, such as murder, if new facts come to light.
Family and Friends Call for Justice
The victim’s family has not yet released a formal statement, but close friends have taken to social media to express grief and call for accountability. Several posts include photos of Sholar smiling with friends, celebrating birthdays, and attending community events.
“He didn’t deserve this. No one deserves to die this way,” one friend wrote. “We want justice for Wendell. Say his name.”
A candlelight vigil is being planned for later this week at the site of the shooting. Organizers hope the event will not only honor Sholar’s memory but also shine a light on the broader issue of violence impacting young Black men in Columbia.
Anyone with information related to the case is urged to contact the Columbia Police Department or submit a tip anonymously to Crime Stoppers.
