Three Killed in East Oakland Market Shooting, Two Charged

Caption: Exterior of a courthouse representing the judicial process in criminal cases. Source: Wikimedia Commons / Tom Stewart, CC BY-SA 2.0.

Two men have been charged in connection with a triple homicide that left three people dead inside a neighborhood market in East Oakland. Prosecutors say the shooting shocked the community and underscored ongoing concerns about gun violence in public spaces.

Darrell Tatmon and Angelo Lemelle Pharr were formally charged after investigators linked them to the deadly incident. Authorities say the case involves multiple victims, a public location, and alleged use of firearms, elevating its severity under California law.

Both men are currently being held as the case moves toward arraignment. Prosecutors emphasized that the charges reflect the seriousness of the alleged crimes and their impact on the surrounding community.

What Prosecutors Allege Happened

According to charging documents, the shooting occurred inside a small market in East Oakland. Prosecutors allege Tatmon opened fire inside the store, killing three people.

Two of the victims were brothers, a detail that has deepened the emotional weight of the case for family members and neighbors. Authorities have not publicly identified all of the victims, citing ongoing proceedings.

Investigators say the violence unfolded quickly, leaving little opportunity for those inside to escape. Officials have not released details about what led up to the shooting, stating that the motive remains unclear.

Charges Against the Suspects

Tatmon has been charged with three counts of murder, along with additional firearm-related charges tied to the shooting. Prosecutors allege he was the primary shooter and played the central role in the killings.

Pharr faces a different set of charges, including assault and firearms offenses. Authorities allege he was connected to the incident through actions that supported or followed the shooting, though they stopped short of accusing him of pulling the trigger.

Both defendants are being held pending arraignment, with bail set as the court considers the severity of the allegations. Defense attorneys have not publicly commented on the charges.

Community Impact and Public Safety Concerns

The shooting has rattled residents in East Oakland, where neighborhood markets often serve as gathering places and daily necessities. Neighbors described fear and disbelief that such violence could erupt in a familiar setting.

Community members have expressed grief for the victims and concern about safety in everyday public spaces. Local leaders acknowledged the emotional toll and said the incident reinforced calls for violence prevention efforts.

Law enforcement officials said the case highlights the dangers posed by gun violence in crowded locations. They urged anyone with information to cooperate with investigators as the case proceeds.

What Comes Next in the Case

Tatmon and Pharr are expected to appear in court for arraignment, where a judge will formally read the charges and address bail and custody conditions. Prosecutors indicated they will seek to keep both men detained as the case moves forward.

If convicted, Tatmon could face life sentences for the murder counts under California law. Pharr also faces the possibility of significant prison time if found guilty on the assault and firearms charges.

As the legal process unfolds, authorities cautioned against speculation about motive or guilt. For the families of the victims and the East Oakland community, the focus now turns to accountability through the courts and the long process of healing after a public act of violence.

References: sfgate.com | CBS News