Panic at Gunfire Erupt Popular Oakland Eatery:s Near Well Pierre, Diners Describe Chaos as City Renews Safety Demands
OAKLAND, CA — May 2, 2025
A peaceful Friday evening quickly descended into chaos at Well Pierre, a popular Oakland dining spot, when unexpected gunfire rang out near the establishment, shattering the calm and leaving patrons in a state of shock and fear. While authorities have confirmed that no fatalities occurred, several people were treated for minor injuries sustained in the ensuing scramble for safety. The terrifying ordeal has reignited concerns over public safety and gun violence in the city.
According to the Oakland Police Department (OPD), the incident unfolded around 8:45 p.m. in the bustling Lake Merritt district, just outside the restaurant’s main entrance. Witnesses reported hearing a series of loud pops—later confirmed as gunshots—which triggered panic both inside and outside the restaurant.
“We were just finishing dinner when suddenly there was this loud bang, then another, and everyone started screaming,” said Elena Cruz, a diner who had been at Well Pierre celebrating a friend’s birthday. “People hit the floor, others ran toward the back exits. It was absolute chaos.”
A Community Shaken
Although the gunfire did not penetrate the restaurant itself, glass windows were shattered by the commotion, and multiple vehicles parked nearby sustained damage. Paramedics treated five people at the scene for injuries related to falls and cuts, none of which were life-threatening. OPD confirmed that no one was hit by gunfire.
“It’s a miracle that no one was seriously hurt,” said Captain Raymond Lee of the OPD. “However, this kind of violence is unacceptable, and we are pursuing every lead to identify those responsible.”
Preliminary investigations indicate that the gunfire was part of a targeted altercation between two groups on the street, though police have not yet made any arrests. Surveillance footage from nearby businesses is currently under review, and OPD is urging anyone with information to come forward.
Diners Describe Terrifying Moments
Patrons of Well Pierre, a well-regarded restaurant known for its farm-to-table cuisine and relaxed ambiance, described the moments of fear with vivid clarity.
“It felt like something out of a nightmare,” said Marcus Hayes, who was dining with his family. “One minute we were laughing and enjoying our meal, and the next we were diving under tables and shielding our kids.”
Staff members, praised by many diners for their quick response, helped guide people to safety through rear exits and kept customers calm until police arrived.
“We are incredibly thankful for our team and their bravery,” said Sophie Tran, the restaurant’s manager. “Our priority was to keep everyone safe, and we’re grateful that no lives were lost.”
Renewed Calls for Action
The incident has reignited debates over public safety in Oakland, a city that has seen a troubling rise in violent crime over the past year. Community leaders and local residents are demanding more robust measures to curb gun violence and ensure that public spaces remain safe.
“We cannot allow our city to live in fear,” said City Councilmember Angela Flores, who represents the Lake Merritt area. “We need stronger community policing, investments in violence prevention programs, and accountability at every level.”
A town hall meeting has been scheduled for next week to address residents’ concerns and discuss potential solutions.
Investigation Ongoing
As of Saturday morning, police are continuing their investigation and maintaining a visible presence in the area. Well Pierre has announced that it will remain temporarily closed for repairs and to give staff time to recover from the traumatic event.
In a statement posted on their website and social media, the restaurant wrote: “We are devastated by the violence that disrupted what should have been a joyful evening for our guests. Our hearts are with everyone affected, and we remain committed to the safety and well-being of our community.”
The official investigation page can be followed at The Chronicle’s coverage for ongoing updates.
As Oakland grapples with yet another troubling incident of gun violence, residents and officials alike are left asking: how many more close calls will it take before meaningful change is realized?