OAKLAND, CA — Community Mourns Fernando Castillo Rodriguez, 23-Year-Old Fatally Shot at Unlawful Nightclub
With profound sorrow and rising outrage, the Oakland community is grappling with the tragic death of Fernando Castillo Rodriguez, a 23-year-old local resident and rising young professional, who was fatally shot over the weekend at an unlawful nightclub operating without a license in East Oakland. Both his family and law enforcement have confirmed his identity, and tributes have begun pouring in from all corners of the city, where Fernando was deeply loved and respected.
The shooting, which left multiple others injured, occurred in the early hours of Sunday morning inside a warehouse on the 800 block of 81st Avenue, which authorities say had been illegally converted into a nightclub space. What was supposed to be a night of music and celebration turned into chaos when gunfire erupted shortly after 1:30 a.m. First responders found Fernando with a critical gunshot wound. Despite lifesaving efforts on the scene and en route to the hospital, he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
A Life Cut Tragically Short
Fernando Castillo Rodriguez was far more than a victim — he was a beloved son, brother, friend, and an admired manager at the Wooden Table Baking Company, a growing business known for its artisan pastries and community spirit. Known for his work ethic, kindness, and quiet leadership, Fernando had quickly risen through the ranks at the company and had dreams of one day opening a bakery of his own.
“He was ambitious but grounded,” said Andrés Salgado, a co-worker and close friend. “Fernando came in early, stayed late, and was always encouraging the team. He didn’t just want to make good food—he wanted to make people feel good. That’s who he was.”
Born and raised in Oakland, Fernando was a graduate of Oakland High School and had attended community college while working full-time to support his family. He was the eldest of three siblings and had become a father figure to his younger brother and sister after the passing of their father several years ago.
“He was the glue that held our family together,” said his mother, Lourdes Castillo, through tears. “He gave us everything he had. We don’t know how to move forward without him.”
Community Outrage and Questions
Fernando’s death has ignited anger and grief across Oakland, as questions mount about how an unlicensed nightclub was allowed to operate undetected — and how it led to such a senseless loss of life. The location had no business permits or safety protocols in place and has been the subject of prior noise complaints, according to nearby residents.
City officials, including Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao, have vowed a full investigation.
“This tragedy should never have happened,” Mayor Thao said in a press conference. “We have to get to the bottom of how venues like this continue to pop up in our city. Fernando’s death is a gut-wrenching reminder of how urgent that work is.”
Law enforcement authorities are currently investigating the shooting and reviewing surveillance footage. No arrests had been made as of Monday evening, but police are urging anyone with information to come forward.
“This wasn’t just another statistic. This was someone’s son, someone’s mentor, someone’s future,” said Detective Marcus Lee, who is leading the investigation. “We are doing everything we can to bring justice to Fernando and his family.”
A Legacy of Hard Work and Hope
Fernando Castillo Rodriguez was the kind of young man whose story inspired those around him. Despite growing up in a neighborhood that faced its share of challenges, he never let hardship define him. Instead, he focused on his goals — taking pride in his work, supporting his family, and uplifting his peers.
“He had dreams,” said Carmen Rivera, a family friend and neighbor. “Not just for himself, but for his little brother, for his mom. He wanted to make life better for all of them. And he was doing it.”
His colleagues at Wooden Table Baking Company have announced that they will close for several days in mourning and are organizing a community bake sale and fundraiser to support Fernando’s family with funeral costs and long-term assistance. A GoFundMe campaign has also been launched and has already raised thousands of dollars within hours of being posted.
Memorial and Calls for Change
A candlelight vigil is scheduled for Friday evening at 7:00 p.m. in Dimond Park, where Fernando often went to relax after work or spend time with friends. The vigil will feature prayers, music, and testimonials from those who knew him.
Community activists are also calling on city leaders to take more aggressive action against unauthorized venues and improve safety measures for young people seeking social spaces.
“Fernando deserved a future. He deserved safety. And he deserved better from this city,” said Rosa Martinez, a youth advocate. “This cannot be swept under the rug.”
A Final Farewell
As Oakland reels from the loss of a bright and promising young man, it also remembers Fernando Castillo Rodriguez for all he gave — his hard work, his unwavering loyalty, his kindness, and the love he poured into everyone around him.
In a world that often feels too chaotic and cruel, Fernando was a reminder of everything good and hopeful. His absence is a wound that will not soon heal, but his legacy will live on in the stories, the laughter, and the memories of those fortunate enough to have shared in his short but meaningful life.
Rest in power, Fernando. You will never be forgotten.
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