Kerry Baxter Jr., a 19-year-old, was tragically shot and killed on January 16, 2011, in East Oakland, California. The incident occurred near Saint Anthony Church, where Kerry was approached by two assailants after he had gone to San Antonio Park with two female acquaintances. The men demanded that Kerry hand over his money and then instructed him to run. He was subsequently chased and shot through the heart, collapsing in front of the church.
Witnesses reported seeing a dark-colored van in the area, which remained until emergency services arrived. Despite eyewitnesses being present, no significant progress has been made in solving his murder, and his family has faced challenges in getting answers from the Oakland Police Department (OPD).
Kerry’s death was particularly painful for his family, especially his grandmother, Anita Wills, who has been vocal about the lack of action from law enforcement. She mentioned that despite repeated attempts to engage with OPD, they have not provided updates or posted descriptions of the suspects. The police have also failed to offer a reward for information that could lead to an arrest. This lack of progress has been deeply frustrating for Kerry's loved ones, who continue to seek justice. In January 2012, the Oscar Grant Committee, alongside Kerry’s family, held a vigil to honor his memory and to demand accountability from both the police and other local authorities involved in the investigation.
The community remembers Kerry as a kind-hearted young man with dreams of pursuing a career in music. His untimely death left a significant void in the lives of his family members and friends. They continue to advocate for justice, hoping that renewed public attention will eventually lead to answers and help bring those responsible for his death to justice.
