Atlantic City Man Pleads Guilty to Attempted Murder in Bar Shooting

Surveillance video captured the altercation before the gunfire outside the Chelsea Pub.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 1:06am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extreme close-up photograph of a handgun magazine or spent shell casing, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, creating a stark, gritty, investigative aesthetic.The violent aftermath of a bar altercation underscores the need for stronger measures to address gun crime in Atlantic City.Atlantic City Today

A 35-year-old Gloucester County man named Rockwell Pohlig has pleaded guilty to attempted murder, as well as illegal weapons and drug charges, for a shooting that occurred outside an Atlantic City bar in October 2024. Surveillance video showed Pohlig and the victim engaged in a verbal dispute before Pohlig fired a handgun, striking the victim in the shoulder.

Why it matters

The case highlights the ongoing issue of gun violence and repeat offenders in Atlantic City, a city that has struggled with high crime rates. Pohlig had prior convictions, including a federal prison term for human trafficking, underscoring the need for stronger measures to address violent crime and prevent such incidents from occurring.

The details

According to the affidavit, the shooting happened outside the Chelsea Pub after 3 a.m. on October 12, 2024. Surveillance video showed what appeared to be a verbal fight before Pohlig fired a handgun from inside his jacket, hitting the victim in the shoulder area. The victim then flagged down a police officer for help and was treated at a local hospital. Pohlig surrendered to police days later on October 17, 2024, and admitted to officers that he had brought more than an ounce of synthetic cannabinoid with the intent to sell it to others being held in jail.

  • The shooting occurred outside the Chelsea Pub after 3 a.m. on October 12, 2024.
  • Pohlig surrendered to police on October 17, 2024, days after the shooting.

The players

Rockwell Pohlig

A 35-year-old Gloucester County man who pleaded guilty to attempted murder, illegal weapons, and drug charges for a shooting outside an Atlantic City bar.

The Victim

A man who was shot in the shoulder by Pohlig during the altercation outside the Chelsea Pub.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Pohlig is scheduled to be sentenced on June 9, where the state will recommend a term of 13 years in prison as part of his plea deal.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the need for stronger measures to address violent crime and prevent such acts from occurring, particularly in communities like Atlantic City that have faced ongoing challenges with gun violence and repeat offenders. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of effective law enforcement, rehabilitation programs, and community-based initiatives to address the root causes of crime and promote public safety.