Tragedy in Oakland: Parole Officer Killed, Suspect Apprehended
OAKLAND, Calif. — In a brazen midday attack, State Parole Agent Joshua Lemont Byrd, 40, was fatally shot inside the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation’s Adult Parole Operations office at 7717 Edgewater Drive on Thursday, July 17, 2025, at approximately 12:50 p.m.
Byrd, who began his career with CDCR in 2014 and transferred to the Oakland parole unit in October 2024, was escorted to Highland Hospital in critical condition. Despite efforts by medical staff, he tragically succumbed to his injuries.
Immediate Response & Pursuit
Upon notification, law enforcement agencies—including Oakland PD, Alameda County Sheriff’s Office, CDCR personnel, and CHP—swiftly cordoned off the scene, sealing Edgewater Drive and nearby areas as a homicide investigation unfolded.
Surveillance footage and witness testimonies identified the shooter as a Black male, about 5’5″, wearing all black with closely cropped hair.
In a startling escape attempt, the suspect allegedly commandeered a local transit bus. He was later located by responding officers at the intersection of 90th Avenue and International Boulevard, where he was taken into custody. Authorities emphasized there is no ongoing threat to the public.
Motive Still Unclear
Details surrounding the incident—including motive, whether there was any personal connection to Agent Byrd, and how the suspect obtained a weapon inside a secure facility—remain unconfirmed. Law enforcement investigators, including local, state, and federal partners, continue to examine security protocols, surveillance footage, and witness statements.
State officials, including Governor Gavin Newsom and Acting Governor Eleni Kounalakis, issued a joint statement describing the incident as “a heartbreaking loss,” and ordered state flags to fly at half-staff in Byrd’s honor—the first CDCR officer killed in the line of duty since 2018.
Remembering Officer Byrd
Byrd, a devoted public servant, previously served as a correctional officer and sergeant before becoming a parole agent. Known for his professionalism and dedication, he leaves behind a grieving wife and young children. His loss has sent shockwaves throughout both the local and state corrections communities.
Next Steps & Community Impact
- A press conference is expected soon to disclose updates on the suspect’s identity, legal charges, potential motive, and parole status.
- Investigators are meticulously reviewing all available footage, interviewing employees and bystanders, and ensuring all security systems are accounted for.
- Federal and local officials are collaborating on a broader assessment of parole office safety and access controls.
This remains an active and evolving investigation. The Oakland law enforcement community, correctional officers statewide, and Byrd’s family are left devastated by this senseless act of violence, and many are demanding answers and enhanced safety for officers on duty.