On the evening of July 3, 2024, Berkeley police responded to a report of a shooting in the 2900 block of Martin Luther King Jr. Way. Upon arrival, they discovered 55-year-old Matthew Lamont Gullette, who had sustained gunshot wounds to the head and torso. Despite immediate medical attention, Gullette was pronounced dead at the scene. The location of the incident was identified as the Martin Luther King Jr. House, a facility described as serving a disabled community.
Following a thorough investigation, Berkeley police identified 57-year-old Steve Addison of Oakland as the primary suspect in Gullette's death. On August 1, 2024, officers located Addison near a food truck in North Oakland. Upon noticing the police presence, Addison attempted to flee but was apprehended after a brief foot chase. He was subsequently charged with murder and possession of a firearm by a felon. At the time of his arrest, Addison had prior convictions for robbery and burglary, and there was an outstanding bench warrant related to sexual battery.
While in custody at Santa Rita Jail, Addison experienced a medical emergency on September 16, 2024. Despite receiving medical treatment, he passed away on September 19, 2024. The Alameda County Sheriff's Office noted that Addison had a known history of severe medical conditions. The exact cause of his death is pending determination by the Coroner's Division.
The investigation into the circumstances surrounding Gullette's death and Addison's subsequent demise remains ongoing. Authorities have not publicly disclosed a motive for the shooting. The community continues to seek closure as they await further details from law enforcement.
