Willie Bernstine IV, 32, was fatally shot outside his workplace in Oakland on the morning of December 31, 2024. Bernstine, a Richmond resident and father of two, was arriving for work at Auto-Chlor near 14th and Poplar Streets when gunfire erupted. Investigators recovered at least 26 shell casings at the scene.

Authorities later charged 26-year-old Joseph Westbrook with murder under special circumstances, alleging Westbrook lay in wait, approached Bernstine with an AR-15-style rifle and opened fire before fleeing in a vehicle. A .40-caliber pistol was also recovered in connection with the killing. No motive has been disclosed, and officials have not reported any prior connection between Bernstine and the charged suspect.

Bernstine’s family describe him as bright, loving and hardworking; his mother Leah Freeman has called for justice and said her son was not involved in criminal activity. The Oakland Police Department continues to investigate and is asking anyone with information to come forward. Does anyone have information about Bernstine’s routine that morning or about activity near 14th and Poplar Streets? Need help finding witnesses or tips?