Oakland police are on the hunt for a robbery crew after someone in a car tied to a suspected robbery opened fire on officers during an attempted traffic stop in West Oakland yesterday. No officers were hit and police did not return fire, authorities said, as the suspects took off and nearby streets were shut down during a search. Detectives now believe the same group is connected to a string of armed robberies and burglaries across the East Bay.
What happened
According to the East Bay Times, officers spotted a vehicle they believed had been used in multiple crimes at about 6:30 AM near 18th Street and Market Street and tried to pull it over. At least one person inside the car fired at officers on the 700 block of 21st Street, police said, then the vehicle kept going. The department temporarily shut down surrounding streets while officers searched for suspects and collected evidence.
Who’s leading the response
Interim Police Chief James Beere is overseeing the investigation. He was appointed interim chief in December and has served with OPD since 1997, according to the City of Oakland. Police said they are working with other agencies as they follow multiple leads.
Police appeal for tips and video
Beere told reporters that officers did not pursue the vehicle further because of public safety concerns and that investigators have several strong leads that should help identify the suspects, according to the East Bay Times. Anyone with information or video is asked to call 510-238-3326 or email [email protected], police said.
What residents should know
Police had not announced any arrests and investigators urged residents not to confront anyone they believe might be involved. The shooting highlights the risks officers face when trying to stop vehicles linked to armed robberies, and detectives say they are now reviewing surveillance footage and phone videos in an effort to track down the suspects.
