A night of family recreation at a bowling alley in East Norriton, Pennsylvania, took a tragic turn, resulting in the death of 29-year-old Frank Wade. On the evening of February 20, 2021, Wade, a father of two and an aspiring chef from Philadelphia, was at Our Town Alley with relatives. The bustling establishment, filled with 50 to 75 patrons, including young children, was a popular destination for families in the area.
The enjoyable atmosphere was shattered when a physical altercation broke out. Surveillance footage showed 17-year-old Jamel Barnwell of Upper Darby entering the bowling alley with two other individuals shortly before 7 p.m. A few minutes after arriving, a confrontation began between Barnwell and Wade's group. Barnwell then pulled out a. 45 caliber handgun with an extended magazine and fired 15 shots. Wade was struck by the gunfire, and as he lay on the ground, the shooter continued to fire at him. The chaotic scene sent patrons scrambling for safety, with one father reportedly breaking a window to help his children escape.
Frank Wade died from his gunshot wounds, and his death was ruled a homicide. Four of his relatives, ranging in age from 18 to 31, were also injured in the shooting but were reported to be recovering. Investigators found Barnwell's cellphone at the scene, which contained photos of him with a handgun.
Following the incident, law enforcement launched a manhunt for Jamel Barnwell. He surrendered to police the following night. Barnwell faced charges of first-degree murder, attempted murder, and aggravated assault. Authorities stated that it was unclear if Barnwell and Wade had known each other prior to the deadly encounter. Two other men who were with Barnwell on the night of the shooting were also sought by police.
