Oakland, California – Oakland police are investigating a series of homicides, with three occurring within a 14-hour period over the weekend. This surge in violence brings the total number of homicides in the city to four in the first week of 2024.
One of the victims, 46-year-old Maged Alazzani, was fatally shot during a robbery at Orlando’s Market in West Oakland. Alazzani, a store clerk, was described as a hardworking man from Yemen who was striving to achieve the American dream and provide for his family. Despite being rushed to the hospital by family members, he succumbed to his injuries shortly after the incident.
Neighbors and community members were deeply saddened by Alazzani’s untimely death, describing him as a generous and beloved member of the community. Many expressed shock and heartbreak over the senseless violence that took his life.
Travis Charles, a neighbor who knew Alazzani for over a decade, recounted the store clerk’s kindness and willingness to help others, even selling him a car on a payment plan when he was in need. The sentiment was echoed by others who had been touched by Alazzani’s warmth and generosity.
Following the tragic event, there have been calls for increased security measures and intervention from city officials. Some community members have urged the mayor to declare a state of emergency in Oakland, while expressing concern over the escalating violence in the area.
As of now, no arrests have been made in connection with Alazzani’s murder, and the police have not released any information about potential suspects. The community remains on edge as they mourn the loss of a beloved member and seek justice for the senseless crime.