The city of Oakland is mourning the tragic loss of Latetia Bobo, a 33-year-old teacher and creative who was killed in a downtown mass shooting early Saturday morning. Bobo, affectionately known as “Teesh,” was a resident of Richmond and was among several people struck by gunfire at EZ Lounge. The heartbreaking incident has left students, colleagues, and community members grieving the loss of a woman remembered for her compassion and dedication.
According to the Oakland Police Department, the shooting occurred after an argument inside the lounge escalated into gunfire. Authorities say Bobo was struck by a stray bullet and was pronounced dead at the scene. A second victim, a 25-year-old man, later died at a hospital. Five other individuals—three women and two men in their 20s and 30s—were also injured but are expected to survive. Police confirmed that none of the victims appeared to have been the intended targets.
Investigators recovered two handguns from the scene, though authorities have not yet announced any arrests in connection with the shooting. Detectives are continuing to examine evidence and interview witnesses as they work to understand exactly what led to the deadly violence. Video circulating online from the night of the incident shows people inside the venue scrambling for safety as gunfire erupted.
Bobo was widely known for the positive impact she had on young people. She taught eighth-grade students at Caliber Beta Academy, where colleagues and administrators remembered her as a passionate educator who cared deeply about her students. In a statement, the school described her as someone who brought “kindness, warmth, joy, laughter, creativity, and deep care” into every space she entered, calling her both an incredible teacher and an extraordinary human being.
Beyond the classroom, Bobo was also active in the creative community. She contributed as a writer and producer to the 2025 independent drama Her Story To Tell. The film’s director, Pharoah Powell, praised her work and talent, saying she played a crucial role in the project and left a lasting impression on those who worked alongside her.
Friends say Bobo had been enjoying the popular Oakland First Fridays celebration earlier in the evening before heading to the lounge where the shooting occurred. In the wake of her death, Caliber Beta Academy announced that classes would be canceled Monday to allow students and staff time to grieve, though the campus would remain open for those seeking support. As the community mourns, loved ones are remembering Latetia “Teesh” Bobo not only for the tragedy that took her life, but for the kindness, creativity, and inspiration she shared with the world.
