Reuben Lewis III, a 38-year-old father and youth coach from Oakland, CA, tragically lost his life on February 24, 2021. The incident occurred at Concordia Park during a youth football practice, where Lewis was coaching. The shooting happened in broad daylight, putting numerous children and community members at risk. Despite efforts by an off-duty firefighter to save him, Lewis succumbed to his injuries at the scene.
The suspect, Daniel Stith, 36, was identified and charged with the
murder of Reuben Lewis III. Stith was seen leaving the park shortly after the shooting and later turned himself in at the San Leandro Police Department. The motive behind the shooting remains unclear, but the community was left in shock and mourning. A vigil was held at Concordia Park, attended by family, friends, and community leaders, to honor Lewis's memory and call for an end to gun violence.
Legal proceedings against Stith have faced complications. Questions about his mental competence have arisen, leading to a suspension of criminal proceedings. A mental health professional has been tasked with evaluating Stith's mental state to determine his fitness for trial. During the preliminary hearing, witnesses described Stith's erratic behavior, both during and after the shooting. He reportedly showed up at a nearby residence, stripped naked, and left an envelope with $900, confessing to the shooting. Stith's behavior in jail has also been problematic, including an incident where he allegedly assaulted a sheriff's deputy.
The case remains in limbo as the court awaits the results of the mental health evaluation. The community continues to grapple with the loss of a beloved mentor and father, while the legal system works to address the complexities surrounding the case.
