SAN ANTONIO, TX — What began as a family gathering turned into a night of heartbreak and tragedy when 44-year-old Jennifer McClendon was fatally shot late Saturday night on the city’s Northeast Side. Authorities are now investigating the incident as a homicide, and the community is left in shock over the senseless loss of life.

The shooting occurred around 11:50 p.m. in the 6000 block of Clematis Trail, near Bluebonnet Bay, in a quiet residential neighborhood. According to the San Antonio Police Department, McClendon was attending a family gathering when she was struck by a gunshot wound to the chest. Emergency responders rushed her to a nearby hospital with life-threatening injuries, but despite efforts to save her, she was later pronounced deceased.

Victim Identified by Medical Examiner

The Bexar County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed the victim’s identity as Jennifer McClendon, age 44. Her cause of death was officially determined to be a gunshot wound to the chest, and her death has been ruled a homicide.

Details about McClendon’s life are still emerging, but friends and relatives have described her as a loving, warm-hearted woman who valued family above all else. That such a tragedy would unfold during what should have been a safe, intimate gathering has devastated those who knew her.

“She was always the one trying to bring people together,” one neighbor said. “No one can believe this happened to her.”

Investigation Ongoing

Multiple witnesses were present at the scene, and police spent hours interviewing individuals and collecting evidence throughout the night. As of now, no arrests have been made, and no suspect has been publicly named. The motive behind the shooting remains unclear, but investigators believe someone at the gathering may have information critical to the case.

Officers are urging anyone who saw or heard anything suspicious to come forward. Detectives believe that witness cooperation will be essential in identifying the shooter and bringing justice to Jennifer McClendon’s family.

A Community in Grief

The Northeast Side neighborhood where the shooting occurred is reeling in the aftermath of the violence. What was supposed to be a night of family bonding and celebration turned into an unthinkable nightmare.

Candles and flowers have been placed near the home in McClendon’s memory, and friends have begun organizing a vigil to honor her life and demand accountability.

“We can’t let this be just another name,” said one community organizer. “Jennifer mattered. She deserves justice.”

How You Can Help

If you or anyone you know has information related to this case, please contact the San Antonio Police Department’s Homicide Unit or reach out anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 210-224-STOP (7867). Information leading to an arrest could be eligible for a reward.

Final Thoughts

Jennifer McClendon should have made it home that night. Instead, her life was cut short by a senseless act of violence. Her family is now left to grieve the loss of a woman who meant the world to them, while police work to uncover the truth behind her murder.

This tragedy is a painful reminder that even moments meant for joy and connection can be shattered in an instant. As the investigation continues, the San Antonio community stands united in mourning — and in the pursuit of justice for Jennifer McClendon.

🕊️ Rest in peace, Jennifer. May your memory be a light in the darkness, and may justice find its way.