Theodore Tolliver, a 48-year-old resident of San Francisco, was tragically killed on August 17, 2021, in the city's Tenderloin neighborhood. Tolliver was attacked by three suspects in the early morning hours on the 800 block of Larkin Street. During the assault, one of the suspects pulled out a gun and shot Tolliver. Despite being rushed to the hospital, he succumbed to his injuries.
Tolliver was well-known in the community for his work with the national organization Crime Survivors for Safety and Justice, where he served as a chapter coordinator for the Bay Area. He was also a member of the San Francisco Reentry Council, which helps formerly incarcerated individuals reintegrate into society.
Following the incident, the San Francisco Police Department launched an investigation but initially did not announce any arrests or provide detailed descriptions of the suspects. However, on September 2, 2021, police arrested 36-year-old Hermando Aresolo in connection with the murder. Aresolo was charged with murder, assault with a firearm, being a felon in possession of a firearm, and conspiracy. The motive for the shooting has not been disclosed by the authorities.
Tolliver's death was a significant loss to the community, as he was deeply involved in efforts to support crime survivors and advocate for justice. His family set up a GoFundMe campaign to cover his burial costs and support his one-year-old son. The campaign received an outpouring of support, raising over $12,000. The investigation into Tolliver's murder continues, with the police urging anyone with information to come forward.
