Julian Barajas-Lopez, 19, was fatally shot during a sideshow in East Oakland in the early hours of January 1, 2024. The shooting happened in the 1900 block of 36th Avenue after a fight among participants; gunfire struck Barajas-Lopez in the back and he died at the scene despite medical attention.

Sideshow events involving illegal street racing and car stunts have been a recurring problem in Oakland and drew large crowds over the holiday weekend. The Oakland Police Department had warned of stepped-up enforcement, but the New Year’s Day sideshow escalated into multiple violent incidents, including this fatality. No arrests have been announced and the OPD Homicide Section is investigating; tips can also be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers.

The death has renewed calls for stronger measures to address sideshows and improve public safety. If anyone saw the incident or has information that could help investigators, please contact the Oakland Police Department’s Homicide Section or Crime Stoppers.