OAKLAND, CA – A wave of violence swept through downtown Oakland early Saturday morning, leaving two people dead and four others wounded in a series of shootings that occurred within a mere 90 minutes. Authorities have yet to make any arrests in connection with the incidents.
The first shooting unfolded around 2:15 a.m. on Broadway near 19th Street, where an innocent bystander was critically injured while attempting to grab a late-night snack at a convenience store. The victim was caught in a crossfire between two rival gangs, according to police reports.
Approximately 45 minutes later, police responded to another shooting on San Pablo Avenue near 17th Street. The victim, who was rushed to the hospital, succumbed to their injuries shortly after arriving. Not long after, another person was found with gunshot wounds on 18th Street near Telegraph Avenue and was pronounced dead upon reaching the hospital.
Residents in the area described the chaos as unexpected, with one witness recalling the sound of gunshots echoing through the streets. “It was like a drive-by,” they said, visibly shaken by the events.
The violence continued with two additional shootings near MLK Way and 19th Street. The first occurred around 3:15 a.m., captured on surveillance video outside a senior citizens’ shelter. One individual was hospitalized following this incident.
Just 30 minutes later, two more individuals reported being shot on the same block, both of whom were transported to the hospital in stable condition. Police are currently investigating whether these incidents are connected.
The shootings took place shortly after the city’s First Friday festival, although it remains unclear if there is any link between the events. Oakland’s Mayor Barbara Lee expressed her dismay, emphasizing the urgent need to address the city’s violence. “This is unacceptable,” she stated, acknowledging the challenges and the ongoing investigation by local law enforcement.
However, the police union highlighted the department’s struggles, citing a shortage of officers as a major hurdle in maintaining safety. “Crime is genuinely out of control,” a union representative noted, pointing to the department’s limited resources.
As Oakland police continue their investigation, they urge anyone with information to come forward to help bring those responsible to justice.