At least 15 people were shot, one person was assaulted and at least two officers were attacked during Juneteenth events Wednesday night near Lake Merritt in Oakland, according to police.
The victims' injuries range from minor to critical, Oakland police Chief Floyd Mitchell said Thursday.
No arrests have been made in connection with the shootings, but one person was arrested for allegedly assaulting an officer, according to Mitchell.
"This type of behavior and level of violence is unacceptable," Mitchell said. "The opportunity to celebrate with your family and friends should never be marred by gunfire."
The incident started at about 8:15 p.m. in the 400 block of Grand Avenue, where thousands were gathered for unsanctioned Juneteenth events, police said. The crowds were peaceful until an illegal sideshow started in the area.
During the sideshow, a person walked across the hood of one of the vehicles involved. Multiple people got out of the vehicle and "violently" attacked that person, Mitchell said.
Multiple fights proceeded to break out along Grand Avenue between Bellevue and Euclid avenues, according to Mitchell. The violence escalated when multiple people opened fire.
More than 50 shell casings were found at the scene, Mitchell said.
Responding officers found several victims. In all, 16 people were transported to local hospitals – 15 for gunshot wounds and one for injuries suffered in the assault, Mitchell said.
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Police were unsure of the exact number of shooters involved.
After the shootings, as officers tried to guide the crowd to a safe area and treat the injured, some individuals punched and pushed at least two officers, police said. The extent of the officers' injuries were unknown.
The investigation is ongoing, and anyone with information should contact the OPD Felony Assault Unit at 510-238-3426. Anyone with videos or photos that could assist with the investigation can send them to cidvideos@oaklandca.gov.
