Marvin Boomer dies in fatal Oakland car crash following police pursuit

Marvin Boomer dies in fatal Oakland car crash following police pursuit

Fatal Oakland car crash death of Marvin Boomer – Obituary

Marvin Boomer, a beloved educator at Castlemont High School, was identified as the pedestrian who lost his life after being struck by a car driven by a suspect fleeing from the California Highway Patrol in Oakland.

According to CHP officials, they had already disengaged from the ground pursuit approximately 20 seconds before the driver lost control of the vehicle and fatally struck Boomer.

The tragic collision occurred at a spot now marked with tributes — candles, flowers, and heartfelt messages like “Love you Mr. Boomer” — honoring the life of the teacher who was deeply respected by students, colleagues, and friends.

“He was an HBCU graduate and a member of a fraternity — this is incredibly painful,” said one mourner at the crash site.

Friends and former students gathered Thursday to pay respects and remember Boomer’s lasting impact. “Having him at Castlemont was a gift. We connected through our shared passion for youth empowerment,” said Khantane Jackson, a close friend.

A community vigil in Boomer’s memory is planned for Friday. Those who knew him described him as a role model whose achievements inspired many. “He made us believe in ourselves,” said Jackson. “Watching him earn his doctorate was a moment I’ll always treasure.”

Nearby resident Sarah Polk recalled the violent impact of the crash. “I heard a loud crash, like an earthquake,” she said. Boomer’s body landed on her staircase railing after being hit. She and her neighbors tried to help immediately after the crash.

Michael Eastwood, who lives across the street, witnessed the aftermath. “Police arrived seconds later. I saw someone fleeing on foot,” he said. Eastwood provided video showing the suspect running as officers gave chase. The man was later taken into custody.

This deadly incident has reignited debate over high-speed chases in Oakland. Just last week, the Oakland Police Department proposed loosening its own pursuit policy, which currently limits ground chases exceeding 50 mph without supervisor approval. CHP, which has been supporting OPD operations, adheres to less strict rules.

“I’m disturbed CHP operates this way, and even more upset that Oakland may revert to these tactics,” said Eastwood. “It puts our neighborhoods at risk.”

CHP released a detailed sequence of events Thursday evening. The suspect’s vehicle was initially flagged for evading Alameda County deputies. Officers attempted a stop at 102nd Avenue and International Boulevard. Within 37 seconds, CHP ended the ground chase and tracked the suspect from a helicopter for the next 15 minutes.

The suspect stopped near East 18th Street and Park Avenue, exited the car, and was re-approached by officers. Another short chase ensued, ending in a crash at Park and 21st Street. CHP again discontinued pursuit 25 seconds before the suspect fatally struck Boomer.

Castlemont High School’s principal expressed grief in a message to the community: “Dr. Boomer wasn’t just an educator — he was a mentor, friend, and a source of inspiration.”

While the school year officially ended Thursday and graduation is scheduled for Friday, a separate community memorial will be held on June 2. Further details will be announced.