OAKLAND — A man fatally shot Saturday morning in the Uptown district was an innocent victim who had just purchased food from a street vendor when he was struck by a stray bullet fired during a gunbattle between others, authorities said.
John “Mica” Esquibell, 28, was shot about 3:06 a.m. Saturday in the 1700 block of San Pablo Avenue. He died several hours later at a hospital.
Esquibell, who lived in the area, had just bought some food from a street vendor and was walking away when multiple suspects engaged in a gunbattle on the street that left Esquibell mortally wounded and at least three buildings in the area, including the Oakland Ice Rink, hit by gunfire.
Another man was fatally shot in the 500 block of 18th Street and at least four other men were wounded by gunfire in Uptown between 2:20 a.m. and 3:30 a.m. Saturday.
Authorities have not released motives for any of the shootings and have not announced any arrests.
In an online fundraiser set up by his employer — the Stiiizy marijuana dispensary in San Francisco — to pay for funeral expenses, Esquibell, who was known to all as “Mica”, was remembered as a “kind soul and inspiring leader” who was lost to a senseless act of violence.
A narrative accompanying the posting said: “Mica was more than just an employee; they were a natural leader who led with empathy and a deep desire to lift up everyone around them. When they joined our team as an Inventory Associate in January 2023, their dedication and diligence were immediately clear.
The fundraiser post noted that Esquibell had eventually risen to being a general manager of a different store location in the city.
“Their leadership was not about numbers, but about people. They led by example and were constantly building up the next generation of leaders. Though many of us only knew Mica in a professional capacity, their kindness and commitment to improving the lives of others were a constant and inspiring presence.”
Those wishing to donate can access the account at gofund.me/b30338097. As of midday Tuesday, $12,005 had been raised toward a goal of $16,000.
Anyone with information about any of the shootings may call homicide investigators at 510-238-3821 or 510-238-7950. Anyone with pictures or videos that might assist in the investigations may e-mail them to cidvideo@oaklandca.gov.