An Oakland man who suffered a seizure while driving last Friday was shot and robbed after crashing into a second vehicle near 78th Avenue and Plymouth Street, his family says. Andre Buchanan, who has epilepsy, is now in the hospital and facing weeks of recovery after surgery on his leg. His wife, Essence Washington, has launched a fundraiser to help cover medical bills while Oakland police continue their investigation.
How a Medical Emergency Turned Into an Attack
Buchanan said he blacked out behind the wheel last Friday, first hitting a parked car and then colliding with a second vehicle near 78th and Plymouth. He told reporters that the other driver then walked up, robbed him and shot him in the leg, according to ABC7 San Francisco. Buchanan said the attacker took his phone and wallet and that he was "in and out of consciousness" when officers arrived. His wife, Essence Washington, told the station, "I've been crying. This is the first day I haven't cried at all."
Hospital Stay and Community Fundraiser
The family has created a GoFundMe to ask for help with medical care, therapy and daily expenses as Buchanan relearns to walk, according to the fundraiser page. Organizer Essence Washington writes that last Friday's seizure and shooting left her husband hospitalized and unable to work, and that donations will go toward treatment and replacing the family's only car. The page, posted on Monday, includes updates on his recovery. Donations and more details are available on the family's GoFundMe.
Seizures and Driving Rules in California
California's Department of Motor Vehicles warns that conditions that can cause a loss of consciousness, including epilepsy, may affect a person's driving privileges and can lead to medical evaluations, probation or a suspended license. The DMV notes that some drivers whose seizures are controlled can keep driving under medical probation, a system that requires ongoing medical reports and oversight from a physician. The Epilepsy Foundation explains that rules vary by state, but seizure control, staying on prescribed medication and individual risk assessments typically guide licensing decisions.
Police Probe and Medical Update
Buchanan told ABC7 San Francisco that he has undergone a blood transfusion and surgery on his leg, and that doctors have instructed him not to put weight on his legs for about two months. Oakland police say they are in contact with the family and are actively investigating the robbery and shooting, the station reports.
Family's Message and Safety Resources
Washington and other family members say they hope the ordeal raises awareness about seizure disorders and how vulnerable patients can be in public, according to updates on their fundraiser. The GoFundMe outlines their immediate needs such as medical bills, therapy and transportation, and asks the community not only to donate but also to share the story as they work through Buchanan's recovery. For information on seizure safety and driving rules, readers can consult guidance from the California DMV and the Epilepsy Foundation.
