Your trusted source for local Oakland, CA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Oakland Interim Mayor Kevin Jenkins announced significant staffing changes within the Mayor's Office, effective April 11. Most staff members will be placed on paid administrative leave, allowing the incoming mayor to select their own team after the upcoming special election on April 15. Jenkins emphasized the importance of focusing on the Mayor’s draft budget, which is set for release on May 1.
Leigh Hanson, the former chief of staff to Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao, was terminated following the emergence of controversial notes she took during a meeting. The notes, which suggested using Black individuals as political tokens, sparked outrage among community leaders and organizations, including the NAACP. This incident is part of a broader FBI investigation into Thao's administration, raising questions about ethics and accountability in local politics.
Oakland's Grand Lake Theater has been recognized as one of the "Coolest Movie Theaters in the World" by Variety, marking it as the only Bay Area theater on the prestigious list. Additionally, Burdell, an acclaimed restaurant in Oakland, has been named the Best Restaurant in the United States by Food & Wine Magazine. The article also highlights the reopening of the Henry J. Kaiser Convention Center and the need for volunteers at SOS Meals on Wheels.
The Oakland Police Department (OPD) praised its officers for their rapid response to a shooting incident on Cortereal Avenue, where they provided life-saving medical assistance to a gunshot victim. Their swift actions, including applying pressure to wounds and using a tourniquet, likely saved the victim's life before he was transported to the hospital. This incident underscores the critical role of law enforcement in emergency medical situations.
The Oakland Police Department swiftly apprehended a juvenile suspect linked to an armed robbery and shooting that occurred on April 2, 2025, on Cortereal Avenue. The victim, who sustained a gunshot wound, is currently in critical but stable condition after being transported to a local hospital. The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities urging anyone with information to come forward.
The Oakland Police Department is seeking community assistance in locating 17-year-old Jayce Spikes, who is missing and considered at risk due to his age. Last seen on March 31, 2025, in East Oakland, Spikes was wearing a black polo shirt and dark jeans. The police encourage anyone with information to contact them immediately.
The City of Oakland released its AAMLO Newsletter for April 2025, highlighting city services and community engagement opportunities. Residents can access information about upcoming meetings and request services through OAK 311. The newsletter aims to keep the community informed about local governance.
ABC7's Day of Giving Tuesday focuses on encouraging donations and support for local nonprofits across the Bay Area, aiming to uplift communities in need. The article outlines ways individuals can contribute to various charities, especially during the holiday season, highlighting the significance of giving back.
A significant property sale in Oakland has fallen through, causing delays in the city’s budget plans that rely on such transactions. This development adds to the city's ongoing financial challenges, as officials had anticipated these funds to alleviate budget shortfalls.
An Oakland dog owner, Brendan Burke, faces trial following a fatal mauling incident involving his aggressive dogs. Testimony from an animal control officer revealed that Burke had tried to surrender the dogs and even considered euthanasia prior to the attack, which resulted in the death of his childhood friend.