Gunfire erupted at a U.S. Coast Guard base in Alameda, California, after a vehicle attempted to access the military facility. The incident took place around 10 p.m. on Thursday, following protests against federal immigration enforcement at the site. Fortunately, no personnel were injured during the occurrence.
Details of the Incident
According to the Coast Guard’s statement on X, the vehicle, identified as a U-Haul truck, was observed backing into the base. Coast Guard personnel issued verbal warnings to the driver to stop, but the driver failed to comply and continued to reverse.
In response to what officials deemed a direct threat, law enforcement officers discharged several rounds. The truck managed to flee the scene. The FBI is currently investigating the situation, although neither the FBI nor U-Haul provided immediate comments.
Context and Public Response
Earlier on the same day, protests gathered at Coast Guard Island, where demonstrators sang hymns and displayed signs advocating against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and military presence in San Francisco. The protest was a reaction to President Donald Trump’s previously announced plans to send federal agents to the city, which were ultimately rescinded after discussions with local leaders.
- Event: Gunfire incident at U.S. Coast Guard base
- Time: Around 10 p.m. Thursday
- Location: Coast Guard Island, Alameda, California
- Vehicle: U-Haul truck
- Injuries: None reported
- Investigative body: FBI
Background on Coast Guard Island
Coast Guard Island, spanning 67 acres, was established in 1913 within the Oakland Estuary. It is federally owned and restricts public access without proper identification. Since 2012, it has served as the location for Base Alameda, which supports Coast Guard operations across the West Coast.
Reactions to Federal Presence
The protests were fueled by local sentiment against a heightened federal presence. Mayor Daniel Lurie and Governor Gavin Newsom both opposed Trump’s plan, indicating that crime rates were declining in the area.
This incident reflects ongoing tensions surrounding federal immigration policies and their enforcement in major urban areas, especially those governed by Democrats. The situation remains fluid as investigations continue and public discourse evolves.
