Local bar owner dies in South Bend shooting

SOUTH BEND, Ind. – A South Bend bar owner died after being shot late Monday night.

The St. Joseph County Metro Homicide Unit identified Melvin Muhammad, 43, as the victim of Monday night’s deadly shooting. Police were dispatched to the intersection of Studebaker St. and La Porte Ave. near The Kickback Bar & Grill.

Muhammad’s daughter confirmed to ABC57 that Muhammad owned the bar since 2014.

Neighbor Richard Tyes said he knew Muhammad.

“I knew him from the neighborhood, like I said, when we’re out here on the porch, he’ll drive by and wave,” said Richard Tyes. “He’s just a friendly guy.”

Tyes also said he heard the shooting all play out.

“Heard a couple shots or something,” said Tyes. “Actually thought it was firecrackers or something going off. Shortly after that had police everywhere.”

Neighbor Deborah Decker mistook the gun shots for firecrackers too.

 “I heard first one loud pop, and then I heard a series of a couple of others,” said Decker. “Then this morning I found out that a gentleman got killed out here and I said, ‘Well my heart goes out to the families, both of them involved, because really it’s a shame.’”

Tyes said he liked Muhammad’s restaurant and thought Muhammad was a  good owner.

“You know when he first opened it, you know (I) went over there, had something, you know pretty good,” said Tyes. “Never had any problems out of the bar before.”

Neighbors said they’re upset over the death of someone in the community.

“It’s really a shame because it’s a dynamite little restaurant,” said Decker. “They’ve got fantastic food. He caters to so many people. This place is so busy.”

“Please, let’s just put the guns down,” said Tyes. “Let’s build South Bend up you know. Bring more pride, more joy back to the Westside.”

An autopsy for Muhammad is schedule for 9 a.m. Wednesday morning.

As of Tuesday night, no arrest had been made in connection to the investigation. There is no suspect information either.

Anyone with information is asked to call St. Joseph County Metro Homicide Unit or CrimeStoppers.