Gunfire Erupts Near Well Pierre Restaurant in Oakland: Diners Describe Terrifying Chaos as Community Demands Answers
Oakland, CA — May 3, 2025
What was supposed to be a normal night out turned into a harrowing experience for diners at Well Pierre, a restaurant located in Oakland, California, after gunfire broke out near the establishment on Friday night. While no fatalities have been reported, the incident sent waves of panic through the area and left patrons shaken, prompting renewed concerns about public safety in the city.
Among those present during the incident was Trejae Jameelah Rae, a local resident and eyewitness who took to social media to recount the terrifying moments when bullets flew past her and her companions.
“I thank God our squad is alright,” Rae wrote. “If your people dined there tonight, check on your people. After I felt bullets fly past me and my people, I’m cool on anything close to Oakland. On top of poor customer service, our lives were put in danger. Never the [expletive] again.”
Rae’s post quickly garnered attention, highlighting not only the fear experienced by patrons but also frustrations regarding how the incident was handled by the restaurant and law enforcement.
Shots Fired, Panic Ensues
According to initial reports, gunfire was heard in the immediate vicinity of the restaurant late Friday evening, prompting chaos among those dining both inside and outside. While it remains unclear whether the shooting was targeted or random, multiple sources confirmed that at least several rounds were discharged, some reportedly close enough for diners to hear the whizzing of bullets.
Trejae Jameelah Rae and others immediately sought cover. “People were ducking under tables and trying to get inside. It was just chaos. You never think that while you’re enjoying dinner with friends you’ll have to fear for your life,” Rae later told a local journalist.
Police were called to the scene shortly after the shots were fired. A perimeter was established, and investigators began interviewing witnesses and gathering surveillance footage from surrounding businesses.
No Known Victims or Arrests Yet
As of now, no victims have been identified or officially reported injured. The Oakland Police Department has not announced any arrests or named suspects in the case. Investigators continue to piece together the timeline of the incident and determine whether Well Pierre was the intended target or merely in proximity to the violence.
Authorities urge anyone with firsthand information or video evidence to contact them directly to aid in the investigation.
Restaurant Faces Backlash Over Emergency Response
Several patrons expressed disappointment over the restaurant’s response to the situation. Rae and others described a lack of clear instruction or direction from staff during the chaotic moments immediately following the shooting.
“Staff didn’t say much. We were on our own,” said one anonymous diner who was present during the incident. “There was no sense of an emergency protocol.”
Well Pierre’s management has yet to issue a public statement about the shooting or their internal response. Efforts to reach the restaurant for comment were unsuccessful as of Saturday evening.
City Officials and Community Members React
Oakland city leaders responded quickly to concerns raised by the public. Councilmember Loren Taylor issued a statement condemning the violence and vowing to support efforts to increase security around nightlife venues.
“This incident reminds us how urgently we need to address gun violence in our city,” Taylor said. “Everyone deserves to feel safe—whether they’re walking the street, dining with loved ones, or working a shift.”
Local organizations and community advocates are calling for better cooperation between businesses and public safety officials to develop emergency response plans and improve real-time communication during violent incidents.
Public Safety in Focus
Friday night’s incident is part of a broader pattern of concern among Oakland residents, who have faced rising gun-related crimes in recent years. While law enforcement has increased patrols in certain areas, many citizens believe more must be done to prevent violence before it occurs.
“This is not about fear-mongering,” Rae added in a follow-up post. “This is about wanting to enjoy our city and come home safely. We shouldn’t have to choose between the two.”
Anyone with information about the shooting is encouraged to call the Oakland Police Department at (510) 238-3821 or contact Crime Stoppers anonymously.