OAKLAND, California — Three people are dead and several others are injured after a juvenile driver lost control of a speeding vehicle in East Oakland late Saturday night, striking pedestrians on one of the city’s busiest corridors.
The crash has left the surrounding neighborhood in shock — and raised urgent questions about street safety and juvenile driving in Oakland.
What Happened on International Boulevard
The collision occurred at approximately 11:15 p.m. near the intersection of International Boulevard and 85th Avenue, according to the Oakland Fire Department.
Investigators say the vehicle was traveling at high speed northbound on 85th Avenue.
The driver then made a westbound turn onto International Boulevard — and lost control.
The vehicle slammed into a parked car and plowed into a group of pedestrians who were on the sidewalk or nearby.
The impact was immediate and devastating.
Three Dead, Others Fighting for Their Lives
Three pedestrians were pronounced dead at the scene.
Their identities have not yet been released by authorities, as family notifications are still being made.
Three additional victims were rushed by first responders to area hospitals. Their conditions range from stable to critical. At least one person remains in serious condition as of Sunday.
The juvenile driver was also transported to a hospital for treatment before being placed under arrest in connection with the fatal crash.
Alcohol and Drugs Still Under Investigation
Oakland Police confirmed that it is not yet known whether alcohol or drugs played a role in the crash.
That investigation is ongoing.
The driver’s age has not been publicly disclosed, but officials confirmed the individual is a juvenile. No further details about charges have been released at this time.
Mayor Barbara Lee Speaks Out
Oakland Mayor Barbara Lee addressed the tragedy in a public statement Sunday morning, offering condolences to the victims and their families.
“Oakland is mourning the lives lost in last night’s tragic crash at International Boulevard and 85th Avenue in East Oakland,” Lee said. “Our hearts are with the victims, their families, loved ones, and all of those impacted.”
The mayor also thanked police officers, firefighters, and first responders who managed the scene under difficult circumstances late at night.
A Community Left Grieving
International Boulevard is one of East Oakland’s most heavily traveled streets — lined with businesses, bus stops, and foot traffic well into the night.
Saturday’s crash struck at the heart of a neighborhood that has long raised concerns about speeding vehicles and pedestrian safety along the corridor.
City officials have not yet commented on whether any new safety measures will be considered in response to the crash.
As the investigation continues, three families are now planning funerals — and a community is asking how this could have been prevented.
Have you seen reckless driving in your neighborhood, or do you have thoughts on pedestrian safety in Oakland? Share your experience in the comments below.
