Oakland on track for fewest homicides in nearly 60 years, police chief says

Oakland has recorded 41 homicides so far this year, putting the city on track for its fewest killings in nearly 60 years, according to Police Chief James Beere. The figure marks a significant decline from the 126 homicides recorded in 2023, as the city continues to see a broader reduction in crime. But despite the progress, some residents and business owners said concerns about public safety and the perception of crime remain.Howard Feight, who lived in Oakland for roughly 25 years before moving to Berkeley a few years ago, said he remains vigilant whenever he returns to the city."Being alert, paying attention to your surroundings," Feight said as he walked around Lake Merritt, describing his approach to staying safe. "Just moving from North Oakland to South Berkeley, so really only a matter of blocks, there was a certain level of safety going on there," he said.Although Feight welcomed the news that crime has dropped significantly, he said he still senses a degree of lawlessness in Oa