Donald Ward, aged 22, was tragically killed on January 20, 2015, in West Oakland, California. The incident occurred near the intersection of 10th and Willow streets, where Ward and another victim, Marcus Sims, were shot while sitting in a minivan. The shooting was described as execution-style, with both men suffering multiple gunshot wounds. Ward died at the scene, while Sims succumbed to his injuries at a hospital shortly after.
The investigation revealed that the motive behind the
killings was linked to gang-related activities. Carlton Broussard, a 29-year-old convicted felon, was identified as one of the shooters. Broussard, along with another unidentified gunman, carried out the attack as part of an internal gang dispute. It was reported that Ward and Sims were involved in committing robberies in the area, and one of their victims was allegedly close to Broussard. This led to a revenge-driven motive for the murders.
Broussard was arrested in March 2015 in Middleburg, Florida, after fleeing the state following the killings. He was charged with two counts of first-degree murder with special circumstances, including multiple murder and weapons enhancements. Broussard's criminal history included prior drug and weapons convictions, which further complicated his legal situation. During the trial, the prosecution presented evidence that Broussard had received a warning that Ward and Sims intended to harm him, which purportedly led him to act in self-defense. However, the jury found him guilty of all charges.
In addition to the murder charges, Broussard was also convicted of second-degree robbery for an incident that occurred just days after the double homicide. He, along with two accomplices, robbed a smoke shop in Brentwood, California, where they assaulted and bound the store clerk before stealing money. This robbery was also linked to their gang activities, as they sought funds to support their criminal operations.
Broussard's trial concluded with a conviction on all counts, and he faced a life sentence without the possibility of parole. The case highlighted the ongoing issue of gang violence in Oakland and the devastating impact it has on the community. The loss of Donald Ward and Marcus Sims served as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with gang affiliations and the cycle of violence that often accompanies it.
