John W. Bass, 24, was shot in Schenectady in the early morning hours of July 1, 2022. Police responded to VibeZ Bar & Lounge on State Street at about 12:51 a.m. and found Bass inside with a single gunshot wound. He was treated by paramedics at the scene, taken to Ellis Hospital, and later died. Investigators determined the shooting had occurred outside the bar.

Bass was a native of Schenectady, a father to a young daughter, and active in local community work. He helped a city councilman develop an anti-bullying campaign later adopted by the school district and served as a certified lifeguard at the Schenectady Boys and Girls Club. His mother was a prominent anti-violence advocate in the city, and Bass was reportedly starting his own business.

Authorities identified 24-year-old Markeith Buchanan as the suspect; the two had known each other since middle school and became involved in a physical fight that night. Surveillance footage reportedly showed Bass getting the better of Buchanan, after which Buchanan went to his car, retrieved a .45-caliber handgun, and shot Bass. Buchanan was arrested in early September 2022 after about two months on the run.

If anyone knew John, Markeith Buchanan, or saw the events that night, please share information with Schenectady police.