Timothy B. Howe, a 34-year-old officer with the Oakland Unified School District Police Department, tragically lost his life on April 14, 1995, in East Oakland. Howe was conducting a routine traffic stop on Crosby Avenue when a verbal altercation with the driver escalated. The suspect, armed with an AK-47 rifle, shot Howe four times. Despite immediate assistance from an off-duty San Francisco officer who heard the shots and called for help, Howe succumbed to his injuries shortly after being
transported to Highland Hospital.
Howe's death was a significant loss to the Oakland Unified School District Police Department, marking the first fatality in its 42-year history. Known for his dedication to the community, Howe often went above and beyond his duties, using his own resources to support and mentor students. His commitment to making a difference in East Oakland was evident in his daily interactions and efforts to combat crime and support vulnerable children.
The suspect responsible for Howe's death was killed on April 18, 1995, during a confrontation with law enforcement. After a four-hour standoff, the suspect, who had wounded three people during the siege, was fatally shot by officers at a roadblock. This incident brought some closure to the tragic event, but the loss of Officer Howe left a lasting impact on his family, colleagues, and the community he served.
In the wake of Howe's death, a scholarship fund was established in his memory to support Fremont High School students pursuing careers in criminal law. This initiative aimed to honor Howe's legacy and his passion for law enforcement, ensuring that his dedication to justice and community service would continue to inspire future generations.
