Derbing Alvarado, a 15-year-old boy from Oakland, California, was fatally shot on March 17, 2025, in what authorities have described as an attempted robbery. Alvarado, a sophomore at Cristo Rey De La Salle East Bay High School, was walking with friends to soccer practice when two individuals approached them. During the encounter, one of the assailants demanded Alvarado’s backpack, and when he resisted, he was shot multiple times.
The shooting occurred in East Oakland, specifically in the 1400 block of 100th Avenue. Alvarado was rushed to a local hospital, but he succumbed to his injuries.
Oakland police swiftly launched an investigation into the killing, leading to the arrest of a 16-year-old suspect. The suspect, whose identity has not been disclosed due to their age, was charged with robbery and discharging a firearm during the commission of a violent felony. Authorities executed a search warrant at the suspect’s residence, where they recovered a firearm believed to have been used in the shooting. Investigators are awaiting lab results to confirm whether the weapon was indeed the one used in the crime. The Alameda County District Attorney’s Office is currently reviewing the case to determine whether the suspect will be tried as a juvenile or an adult.
Alvarado’s family and community have been deeply affected by his tragic death. His father, devastated by the loss, has publicly called for justice, expressing hope that the suspect will be held accountable. Friends and teachers at Cristo Rey De La Salle East Bay High School have described Alvarado as a bright and motivated student who had aspirations of attending college and supporting his family. His school community and local organizations have held vigils in his honor, mourning the loss of a promising young life.
Authorities continue to investigate the case, and community members are urging local leaders to take action to prevent further violence. Alvarado’s killing marks the 22nd homicide in Oakland this year, raising concerns about public safety and youth violence in the area. The police are still searching for a second suspect believed to have been involved in the attempted robbery. Meanwhile, Alvarado’s family has set up a memorial and a fundraiser to assist with funeral expenses, as they struggle to cope with the devastating loss of their son.
