Marta Casiano, a 44-year-old mother of five, tragically lost her life on September 2, 2019, in Oakland, California. Casiano was struck by a stray bullet while walking back to her car with her husband after attending a wedding reception. The incident occurred in the early hours of the morning on the 2100 block of East 22nd Street. According to police reports, the bullet that killed Casiano originated from a nearby altercation unrelated to her.
Despite immediate medical attention, she succumbed to her injuries at a local hospital. Casiano was a beloved community member and businesswoman, known for operating a taco truck in Oakland.
The Oakland Police Department launched an investigation into Casiano's death, focusing on identifying the individual responsible for discharging the firearm. Despite canvassing the area and reviewing surveillance footage, no arrests have been made in connection with the shooting. The police have urged anyone with information to come forward, emphasizing the importance of community assistance in solving the case. The incident marked the 48th homicide in Oakland for the year 2019, highlighting the ongoing issue of gun violence in the area.
Casiano's death has had a profound impact on her family and the community. Her eldest daughter, Mercedes Flores, who had previously survived the mass shooting at the Gilroy Garlic Festival, expressed her disbelief and sorrow over the loss of her mother. A GoFundMe campaign was established to support Casiano's family, reflecting the community's solidarity and grief. The case remains open, with the police continuing their efforts to bring justice for Casiano and her family. The tragic event underscores the broader challenges of addressing gun violence and ensuring public safety in Oakland.
