Fremont Streets Closing

As my loyal readers have noticed, I have not posted much at all this month.  I have not found the time nor interest to continue this blog, as much as it is needed in the community.  For my 100-150 loyal readers, I wish there was a place to point you to for Fremont crime news, but I know of none.  FPD is talking about bringing back the Patrol Blotter.  That really is key in informing the community of crime.  It is sad that neighboring police departments provide much more info on a daily basis to their citizens.  If you have Twitter, I am somewhat active there as @ScannerFremont.  The FPD Dispatch live feed via Broadcastify will continue for now, but technology changes may force it off the air by October. 
I will leave the blog intact for a week or so so everyone will have a chance to see this final post.  Stay safe everyone!

Update on Police Activity in Niles Last Week

From FPD :

Over the last several weeks, numerous convenience stores have been burglarized throughout the Bay Area.  The suspects have been targeting businesses for lottery tickets and cigarettes.  On July 5th, the suspects burglarized the Arco gas station located in the 35000 block of Fremont Bl.  The suspects stole several thousand dollars worth of cigarettes and approximately $3500 worth of lottery tickets.

Video surveillance of the suspects were recovered by Detectives who then developed potential leads on their identities. 

On July 8th, Patrol and Street Crimes Unit Officers responded to the 37000 block of 3rd St. in the Niles District for a report of two subjects arguing.  Officers arrived on scene and detained several subjects at an unoccupied residence.  Officers also located a stolen vehicle at the residence while they were searching the residence. 

While searching the interior of the residence with a K9 unit, Officers discovered that a subject was possibly hiding in the attic.  Officers provided multiple warnings to the subject in the attic, however he refused to surrender.  Officers delivered several pepperball rounds into the attic near the suspect’s location.  This caused the suspect to immediately surrender.  Pepperball rounds are small projectiles filled with a chemical agent irritant.

40 year old Jacy Meier (transient of Fremont) and 32 year old Jazzmin Barboza (transient of Fremont) were arrested for multiple felony counts of burglary.  Evidence from the search was recovered linking the pair to crimes throughout the region.  They were both booked at Fremont Jail and released with a September court date due to the zero bail guidelines. 

Meier is currently on probation for drug sales of a controlled substance.  He has numerous previous arrests for drug sales, drug possession, possession of firearms, possession of stolen vehicles, and possession of stolen property. 

Barboza has numerous previous arrests for drug possession, burglary, and various other theft related crimes. 

Detectives are coordinating additional cases with multiple outside agencies involving Meier and Barboza.

Police Activity in Niles

Just before 1 o'clock this afternoon several officers conducted a probation search on a home near the 3rd Street Park in Niles, according to radio traffic.  Several people were detained and a number of items that may be stolen property, including stolen mail,  were located, according to radio conversations.  A short time later a number of vehicle VIN numbers were run off of Shinn Street by the homeless enforcement sergeant.  I don't know if this was related to the probation search or not, but at least one stolen vehicle was located, either on Shinn or in Niles.  There was a lot of activity between patrol officers and detectives. 

San Bruno Police Make Fireworks Arrests

You know if FPD made a few fireworks related arrests they would be bragging about it.  Little San Bruno PD was able to catch and cite 35 people!!  For FPD, this was just not a priority and we citizens paid for it with loss of sleep, fire suppression costs, etc.

https://www.eastbaytimes.com/2020/07/06/san-bruno-police-make-35-fireworks-related-arrests/

Another Fire Reported Up On Vargas Road

Wildland fire crews are responding to Vargas Road for another vegetation fire.  Company on scene is unable to locate so far.  Could be west on Morrison Canyon.  Update- homeowners saw fireworks and smoke, but apparently no fire developed.  Crews are clearing.

Another Naked Female Call

In one of the parking lots at Mowry and Blacow is a white female in her 30s sans clothing.  She is touching cars and was last seen heading towards a laundromat.  Perhaps killing time while her clothes clean?

Fremont Man Arrested in Nevada County For Felony Assault

Arrest Name Mustafa Khan
Address XXXXXXia rd (VERIFIED)
City, State Fremont, CA
Age / Gender 35 / Male
Race Asian
Hair / Eyes Not Available / BROWN
Height / Weight Not Available
Arrest Details
Arrested For 243(D) - Battery w/Serious Bodily Injury
Arrest Date July 1, 2020
Release Date Not Available
Bail Amount Not Available
Arrest Location Not Available
County of Arrest Nevada
Source Nevada County Sheriff

KHAN, MUSTAFA (NMI) 35 6/11/1985 M 7/1/2020 9:10 PM N FREMONT, CA HANDYMAN
Chg # Agency Officer Agency Case Arrest Location Statute Statute Description Bail Court Case # Type End of Sentence Cleared Date
1 PCSO 23 20-5962 SIERRA TERRACE RD/HWY 28 243(D) BATTERY:SERIOUS BODILY INJ* $50,000.00 F Wednesday, July 1, 2020

FPD Crime Map via CityProtect.com

This is a tool the PD has had for some time, but it does require a few minutes to get the Fremont info set up.  I don't think this should be a substitute for the Patrol Blotter that used to arrived daily in your email box.  From FPD Nixle:


Explore the community crime map with CityProtect.com

We understand it is always important to be informed and know when, where, and what types of reports we respond to in and around your neighborhood. We’d like to make all of our community members aware of CityProtect.com, previously known as CrimeReports.com. CityProtect.com offers a mobile-friendly website which allows users to explore a crime map of their community with up to 180 days of data. The Fremont Police Department participates in the public crime map feature which promotes transparency and advocates for crime prevention awareness. This tool provides automated mapping of incidents with frequent data updates.

City Protect is the only public portal the Fremont Police Department shares report information with. Police reports are generally updated within 72 hours, or less, but can sometimes take more time if the investigation is ongoing. Please understand that this is a representation of crime and is not all-inclusive. It is important to note that some police report types change as the circumstances of an investigation become known and the time listed, is the time of the report and not necessarily the time of the actual incident. This service does not reflect official crime index totals as reported to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting program however, that information is available on our website fremontpolice.gov/transparency. The number of crimes in tables and reports may not be fully reflected in the map due to address data not geocoding. Our goal in offering a community crime map option is to inspire a partnership and empower community members to help shape public safety and improve quality of life.

The Fremont Police Department is always looking for new ways to enhance our community engagement efforts. We feel it is important to give our community various ways to connect with us. We offer crime alerts in various forms which include but do not limit to; NIXLE, Facebook, Twitter, Nextdoor, Neighbors by Ring app, and Instagram. We have received positive feedback with these realms of communication and feel compelled to re-share information on how residents and businesses can stay up to date with crime by utilizing Cityprotect.com.

To learn more please visit: https://www.fremontpolice.gov/CityProtect

or directly
https://www.cityprotect.com/

Contact Information:
Monica Leon
Community Engagement Unit
510-790-6689
Mleon@fremont.gov

FPD Continues to Ignore Fireworks Complaints

A person calls to complain about fireworks on their street.  According to the dispatcher, this is a continuous problem.  Someone on their street is setting off fireworks, but they don't know the exact house.  They want to remain anonymous.  Two officers are dispatched to check it out.  Then the sergeant nixes the call because the reporting party wants to be anonymous.  Just send one unit to drive through the area if he wants.  And so it goes...whether it is because of low staffing levels or just a lack of interest, fireworks complaints are the last calls to be answered.  They are in the same category as an unverified alarm- officers will be notified of the complaint, but have total discretion as to respond or not.  Now, last night in Union City, two officers were assigned to investigate fireworks complaints.  Perhaps they had more officers available.  Or better leadership. 

Home Invasion in Mission Valley

Around 11:30 last night a man returned to his Marigold Drive home to find a strange man in his house.  His wife and child were asleep inside.  The homeowner was able to get his family members outside while the intruder escaped to the bathroom.  Numerous officers responded code 3, but the burglary had exited the house prior to their arrival.  He was described as a male in his 20s wearing a dark blue mask.  Officers searched the area for over an hour but were unable to locate the suspect.  A CSI was working the crime scene.  Unknown if anything was taken from the house or how the suspect entered. 

Car Hits Fire Hydrant On Morrison Canyon

A man reportedly fell asleep at the wheel shortly after 6 o'clock this afternoon and his vehicle drifted off Morrison Canyon Road and struck a fire hydrant.   This was in the 300 block, just east of the railroad tracks.  No one was injured and FFD responded to shut down the hydrant, which was gushing some 30 feet in the air. 

Scanner Feed Update

For the next week or so the scanner feed will go dark around 8 p.m. until at least 10 p.m. in an effort to curb fireworks.  I don't know if listening to the online feed gives fireworks people an early warning of police response, but it might be worth a try.  Lately there have only been 20-30 listeners during that time slot.
Also, the system upgrade to TDMA (phase 2) could occur any day now, but rumor has it that it has been delayed until October.  There is also the real possibility that FPD may elect to encrypt their dispatch channel.  This is the trend nationwide, with Portland OR being the latest large department, but also  San Jose and Sunnyvale here in the Bay Area.  The future of the online feed is looking rather grim at the moment.
More info as I get it.

Police Not Responding to Fireworks Complaints

Several fireworks complaints were initially dispatched to patrol officers this evening only to have the response over ruled by the sergeant.  The call was converted to a "BOL", meaning officers could respond at their discretion.  At lease two of the complaints had a good location as to where they were coming from.  There was nothing else going on in the city.  Perhaps they were short staffed, but please don't tell us that fireworks are illegal and then not respond when citizens call in complaints. 

Fremont Man Arrested For Attempted Murder

A Fremont man has been arrested for attempted murder by the Alameda County Sheriff's Office on Friday June 19th.  The location of the crime is unknown at this time, but an additional charge of using an assault rifle or machine gun, is also on the docket.  Cameron Mecham will be in court on June 26th for a plea hearing. 

Arrest Name Cameron Mecham
Address XXXXXXn ter (VERIFIED)
City, State Fremont, CA
Age / Gender 20 / Male
Race Black
Hair / Eyes BROWN / BROWN
Height / Weight 6'-01" / 165 lbs
Arrest Details
Arrested For 245(A)(3) - Assault By Machine Gun Or Assault Weapon
664/187(A) - Attempted Willful / Deliberate / Premeditated Murder
Arrest Date June 19, 2020
Release Date Not Available
Bail Amount Not Available
Arrest Location 5151 Gleason
County of Arrest Alameda
Source Alameda County Sheriff

Did FPD Defund The Patrol Blotter????

Transparency Portal


The Fremont Police Department strives to provide transparency on police activities, departmental policies, training materials, and agency practices. We are committed to openness, accountability, and integrity. We want to ensure all materials can be made easily available to the public. Please click through the information and contact us if you have any questions.

     As we know, FPD is not transparent when it comes to police activities.  If you haven't already, email Chief Petersen, or Geneva Bosques and insist that they provide a daily activity sheet, previously known as the Patrol Blotter.   There may come a time in the near future when the online scanner may go silent due to technology upgrades on the two county radio system leaving many in the dark as to what is happening crime wise in Fremont.

Chief Petersen:  Kim Petersen <Kpetersen@fremont.gov>


Geneva Bosques, Public Affairs Manager: Geneva Bosques <gbosques@fremont.gov>

Police Activity in Niles

According to radio traffic, a man was struck in the head with a bottle in front of the Niles Train Depot around 9:20 this evening.  Officers located the victim near the flag pole and called in paramedics.  A large crowd was on the plaza and officers requested additional assistance for crowd control, but the group dispersed on their own.  The victim said he was "jumped" by a group of people. 

Community Observations

Place your observations in the "comment" section so others can view.  To view what others have observed, click on the "comment" button (unless "no Comments" is indicated).  Be sure to email Chief Petersen and insist that the daily Patrol Blotter be resumed. 

Oakland Murder Suspect Details

From people on scene, this was the name that officers were calling out of the building.

Citizen Details
Arrest Name Deshawn Lamont Henry
Address XXXXXXn ave
City, State Oakland, CA
Age / Gender 28 / Male
Race Black
Hair / Eyes BLACK / BROWN
Height / Weight 5'-05" / 120 lbs
Arrest Details
Arrested For 187 - Murder
Arrest Date June 9, 2020
Release Date Not Available
Bail Amount Not Available
Arrest Location 41100 Fremont
County of Arrest Alameda
Source Oakland Police

Time To E-Mail The Chief

FPD has gone way too long without publishing a Patrol Blotter.  There was a time when it came out daily, highlighting interesting and important calls throughout the city during that day.  Now it has faded away.  During this nationwide push for police transparency, FPD needs to step up and inform its citizens what they have been responding to.  Seems to me this is to their benefit too to shine a spotlight on crime in Fremont.  So, email Chief Petersen and demand that the Police Blotter be published  daily.  Email her here: Kim Petersen <Kpetersen@fremont.gov>
If 50-100 of us follow through, perhaps something will be done.

Thank you.

Man With Pants Down at Peets

At times it seems that Peets Coffee on Paseo is ground zero for transients misbehaving.  A security guard has called in to say a homeless man is sleeping by the doorway and refuses to leave.  And, oh, he has his pants down.  So much for that fresh cup of coffee and pastry....  Two of Fremont's finest are en route to encourage him to hitch up his pants and move along.  There will be another call about this man later in the day.  Guaranteed.

Oakland Murder Suspect Arrested in Fremont

A man was arrested in Fremont yesterday afternoon for an Oakland murder warrant.   Eye witness accounts and radio traffic described a large scene of law enforcement officers and equipment, including the armored vehicle and drones, at an apartment complex on Fremont Blvd near 5 Corners.  Fremont Police were assisting U.S. Marshal agents in serving an Oakland homicide warrant to a man occupying a room in the building.  Apparently he was arrested with no injuries to anyone involved. 

Cash & Carry Burglar Has Drug Arrests

Arrest Name Kaimana C. Hope
Address Not Available
City, State Fremont,
Age / Gender 36 / Male
Race Not Available
Hair / Eyes BROWN / Not Available
Height / Weight 5'-07" / 165 lbs
Arrest Details
Arrested For 11377(A) - Possession of Controlled Substance
459 - Burglary
496(A) - Receiving Or Concealing Stolen Property
10851(A) - Take Vehicle W/O Owner's Consent
11364(A) - Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Arrest Date June 8, 2020
Release Date Not Available
Bail Amount Not Available
Arrest Location 39175 Farwell
County of Arrest Alameda
Source Fremont Police

Arrested For: By: Date:
Possession of Controlled Substance Fremont PD 2/16/2020
Possession of Narcotic Controlled Substance
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia Fremont PD 1/28/2020
Possession of Controlled Substance
Burglary
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Unlawful Use of Willfully Obtained Personal Identifying Information Fremont PD 1/19/2020
Possession of Controlled Substance
Burglary Alameda County SD 9/6/2019
Burglary
Unlawful Use of Willfully Obtained Personal Identifying Information Dublin PD 9/5/2019
Burglary
Unlawful Use of Willfully Obtained Personal Identifying Information Fremont PD 6/24/2019
Possession of Controlled Substance
Possession of Controlled Substance
Possession of Narcotic Controlled Substance
Possess Control Substance Paraphernalia
Burglary
Receiving Or Concealing Stolen Property
Trespass By Driving On Private Property
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia Fremont PD 4/28/2019
Possession of Controlled Substance
Possession of Narcotic Controlled Substance
Possess Control Substance Paraphernalia Fremont PD 4/19/2019
Possession of Controlled Substance
Possession of Narcotic Controlled Substance
Possess Control Substance Paraphernalia
Bring Controlled Substance/Etc Into Prison
Burglary
Receiving Or Concealing Stolen Property
Trespassing Fremont PD 4/12/2019
Possession of Controlled Substance
Possession of Narcotic Controlled Substance
Possess Control Substance Paraphernalia Dublin PD 3/8/2019
Warrants Or Holds Only San Ramon PD 1/20/2019
Possession of Controlled Substance
Possession of Narcotic Controlled Substance
Possess Control Substance Paraphernalia Dublin PD 10/25/2018
Receiving Or Concealing Stolen Property
Trespass By Driving On Private Property
Loiter / Prowl / Wander Upon The Private Property Of Another
Burglary - Other San Ramon PD 8/9/2018
Possession of Controlled Substance San Ramon PD 8/1/2018
Possession of Controlled Substance
Grand Theft Of Lost Property
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Possess Less than 28.5 Grams of Marijuana

Broadcastify Meltdown

The Fremont Police Dispatch feed is down due to problems at Broadcastify.  No ETA on returning.

Feed Providers,

Our data center provider that hosts many of our audio servers is experiencing connectivity problems affecting multiple customers. This is causing a systemwide outage on Broadcastify right now for all feeds.

How Covid-19 Spawned in Bay Area

Interesting story from the L.A. Times regarding the spread of Covid-19 in the Bay Area.

https://www.latimes.com/science/story/2020-06-09/the-coronavirus-entered-northern-california-many-times-from-many-places

Lead paragraphs:
The novel coronavirus settled in Northern California in much the same way as the rest of the world: It arrived from places near and far, flourished in fertile pockets and incubated until it either died out or moved on to newer pastures.

An international team of scientists combined old-fashioned epidemiology with newfangled genetic sleuthing to determine that the Bay Area’s outbreak was spawned by a mix of foreign and domestic arrivals. The findings were published Monday in the journal Science.

Naked Woman Behind the L'Amour Shoppe on Grimmer

This is just too funny and seems to be poetic justice.  A transient white female adult, completely naked, is sitting on a curb behind the store.  This is an adult book and video store.  This is just odd that they make money selling stuff about naked women, but when one is actually in their parking lot, they call the cops.  How ironic.

New Feature for Self Reporting

As readers have suggested, I am creating a space where people can leave a "comment" on the post below "Community Observations" about police and fire activity they observe in Fremont.  Please leave a time of observation and location and describe as factually as you can what you observe.  I will attempt to play back the police audio to see what the call was about.  The comments are on moderator status due to SPAM activity.  I will review and publish all legitimate comments ASAP.
As the blog pages fill up, I may create a weekly space for this to keep it near the top of the blog.
Some examples would be:  "I just saw 3 police cars rolling with lights and sirens south on Fremont Blvd at Walnut at 2:05 pm".  "House on fire on Maple.  3 o'clock".  "Three cop cars parked in front of Lloyd's Donuts."  <---- no, just kidding.

Community Observations

Leave a comment with your observations of police and fire activity in Fremont.  This feature is on moderator status as there have been SPAM attacks on the blog.  Legitimate comments will be published as soon as possible.  To read the comments, be sure to select the comments button below.

Early Morning Burglary Arrest at India Cash and Carry

The owner of the India Cash and Carry on Farwell was alerted by an alarm company of a possible break in at the store around 6:20 this morning.  The owner checked the live video feed from the  store to find a man with a helmet on, who was not an employee, at the cash register.  Officers were alerted and at least 4 responded code 3.  As officers arrived they noticed a motorcycle with no license plate, parked in front.  The owner confirmed the man was still inside.  Officers were positioned in the back alley as well as the front of the store when the owner saw the subject head to the back door.  Unit 1X7 was there and detained the subject.  The suspect said no one else was inside the store, but officers entered to "clear it" of any other bad guys.  Looks like the suspect will be having breakfast in Santa Rita this morning.

Mail Carrier Beat Up in Union City

A mail carrier delivering mail at an apartment complex on Decoto Road in Union City was assaulted today.  The male suspect left with a female on foot and may reside in the complex.  Several witnesses have come forward and it appears an arrest is pending.  The victim was beat unconscious per one witness and another said he was awake, but could not talk. 

Fremont Man Arrested for Indecent Exposure

A man at Central Park was reported to be laying on a picnic table bench exposing himself.  The call came in around 3 o'clock yesterday and apparently officers located him with his stuff exposed, or citizens filed a complaint.  In any event, an arrest was made. 

Arrest Name Mohamad Said
Address Not Available
City, State Fremont,
Age / Gender 44 / Male
Race Not Available
Hair / Eyes BLACK / BLACK
Height / Weight 5'-07" / 170 lbs
Arrest Details
Arrested For 314.1 - Indecent Exposure
Arrest Date June 4, 2020
Release Date Not Available
Bail Amount Not Available
Arrest Location 40000 Paseo Padre
County of Arrest Alameda
Source Fremont Police

"He Was There Doing His Laundry"

The cousin of the homicide victim reached out this morning and confirmed his name, Anthony Garza, as reported here in April.  The shooting took place on the west parking lot of Luckys,  near the Bright'n Clean Laundromat.  Anthony was hanging out with some friends, apparently waiting for his laundry to be done, when the suspect pulled up in a green SUV.  Some words were exchanged, the suspect exited his vehicle, shot just once (I believe) and fled the scene.  His vehicle was observed on a city license plate reader on west Stevenson near Farwell. 
Here is what she had to say:  "His name is Anthony Garza. He is my cousin. & I have yet to learn ANY information about his passing. He was a father. A pastor. & he worked with at risk youth. He was there doing his laundry. It was also my birthday. 😢. Miss my cousin every single day."

Maybe FPD will find the time to share what they know about this homicide. 

Does Murder Victim's Life Matter?

Nearly two months ago a man was shot and killed in the parking lot of Luckys on Mowry shortly before the sun went down.  There were several witnesses to the shooting plus video from several sources.  To this day, the Fremont Police Department HAS NOT HAD THE DECENCY TO RELEASE THE NAME OF THE MURDER VICTIM NOR PROVIDE ANY FOLLOW UP INFORMATION ON THE INVESTIGATION.  Does this life matter to FPD?  The appearance is that they wish to keep this under the radar.  The reality is a failure in leadership to keep the community informed of public safety events.  Any other Bay Area police agency would have released the name and provided at least one follow up news release on the progress of the investigation within days.  There is no excuse for this lack of transparency. 

Daytime Burglary at B of A in Newark

Three men entered a closed B of A branch on Newark Blvd around 8:40 this morning and fled after employees and patrons arrived.  Officers searched the building to find open doors, but no suspects.  Unknown what was taken, if anything. 

Calm Before the Heat Wave

The protest yesterday kept local officers busy from 1 o'clock until nearly sundown yesterday.  While mostly peaceful, FPD command staff did call in for assistance from Alameda County.  Some 50 plus officers in several vans made their way to Fremont to help bolster security around the police station.  Regional Parks copter Eagle 6 circled Fremont for several hours in the late afternoon as the crowd dispersed and made its way back to the Newpark Mall in Newark.  By all accounts it was a peaceful event. 
As the clock struck 8 the police scanner was mostly quiet.  Then a report of a man with a rifle on Maple in the Centerville District.  Upon further investigation,  a man with a rifle and one with a handgun approach a home in the area.  When they saw the owner outside, they fled in a white VW Jetta.  An alert officer picked up the vehicle on Thornton and followed it onto Contra Costa before losing it in the neighborhood.  Another officer found it on Paseo Padre and followed it onto westbound Mowry.  As the officer activated the red lights the vehicle fled.  A sergeant did not authorize a pursuit.  Was this connected to the shooting on Blacow Monday night?
The heat wave peaks today and then starts a cool down. 

Man With Explosives Arrested Near Police Station

According to online arrest data, a Fremont man was arrested on June 2nd for "Possess Explosive Illegally", 12305 H&S, at the intersection of Stevenson and Civic Center.  From a quick read of the law, it appears the man was in possession of something more powerful than a firecracker.  It is unknown if he had been lighting off devices in the area and was caught, or was stopped for some other reason and the explosives were found on him.  Not smart tho, to light off fireworks near your local police station.

The term "firecracker" means a device consisting of an explosive
pyrotechnic in an amount not to exceed 50 milligrams (.772 grains) in weight
in a fused container whose primary function is to produce an audible effect.
All firecrackers are classified as "dangerous fireworks". Devices similar in
construction to "firecrackers" which exceed .772 grains shall be considered
as EXPLOSIVES in accordance with Health & Safety Code 12000,et seq.
OTHER APPLICABLE LAWS
12303 H&S - Possession of Explosives without valid permit
12305 H&S - Illegal Possession of Explosives
12301 - 12312 PC - Destructive Device Violations
452 PC - Reckless Burning


Arrest Name Jose Miguel Robles
Address XXXXXXle ct (VERIFIED)
City, State Fremont, CA
Age / Gender 32 / Male
Race Hispanic
Hair / Eyes BROWN / BROWN
Height / Weight 5'-08" / 180 lbs
Arrest Details
Arrested For 12305 - Possess Explosive Illegally
Arrest Date June 2, 2020
Release Date Not Available
Bail Amount Not Available
Arrest Location Civic Center Steven
County of Arrest Alameda
Source Fremont Police

Feed Back Up

Most of the crowd control traffic is encrypted, so normal dispatch operations are now being broadcast on line again.

Scanner Feed Down

The Fremont Police Dispatch scanner feed has been taken down and will remain down until the situation at the police department is over.  Allied agencies were not able to communicate with FPD on their encrypted radio channel forcing everyone to use the main dispatch channel.  The commander in charge of the officers watching over several hundred protesters at the PD on Stevenson was frustrated that the crowd could hear him issuing tactical commands.  At that point the feed was taken down.  However, they ended up passing Fremont radios to the other agencies.  This multi million dollar system was developed after Sept 11, 2001 and was intended for agencies to be able to talk to each other.  They could do that, but not on scrambled channels.  In any event, the scanner will remain off the air in case police operations return to their main channel.

Protest at 1 Today

This poster appears to have been written by someone not familiar with Fremont.  There is no "Sears parking lot" in Fremont.  They may be referring to the Newpark Mall in Newark where Sears used to be.  And that is off of Mowry.  I wonder where people will end up staging...Newpark Mall or The Hub?   I have the police scanner tuned to FPD, NPD and UCPD.

Shooting Last Night on Blacow

Just before 11 o'clock last night shots rang out on Blacow south of Calaveras.  Witnesses heard a loud argument amongst several men and then shots being fired.  One witness heard what sounded like a full clip being discharged.  Officers arrived quickly.  Doesn't sound like anyone got hit, but three men reportedly entered that house armed with weapons.  There were reports that this was a home invasion robbery, but also that no one was in the house at the time.  This appears to be a targeted home, perhaps drug related.  As of this writing FPD has not issued a news release.

A Night of East Bay Looting

With 3 scanners going last night, one could barely keep up with all activity.  Sometime in the 6 o'clock hour, while Fremont officers were en route to Oakland in what is becoming a nightly mutual aid run, things were heating up in San Leandro.  At the Bay Fair Shopping Center, a small group of officers were overwhelmed by a large group of people and vehicles.  They retreated and called for assistance.  Fremont officers were turned around and responded.  Minutes later, after officers had formed up and marched towards the group in an effort to clear the parking lot, loud booms could be heard through radio transmissions as rounds of tear gas were dispensed.  Meanwhile Hayward had its own problems.  At one point a sergeant took a dose of pepper spray in the downtown area and called for help.  Southland Mall was being looted.  Stores in the downtown area were vandalized.  The action in San Leandro later moved to the Marina Square Shopping Center where cars were stolen from dealerships, not to mention looting.  Later in the evening the mayhem moved south into Newark.  Large groups circled the Newpark Mall and NPD asked for assistance from Fremont.  A high profile of police cars circled the area.  The damage to the mall is unknown but did not seem nearly as bad as malls to the north.  While this was going on, FPD closed off access to Pacific Commons and this seemed to prevent any looting or vandalism.  In the meantime, the owner of the gun store on Grimmer near Bay Street was reported to be holding a suspect of some sort at gun point.  Officers arrived in short order and detained the man.  It is not known if he was attempting to break into the store or not, but a gun store in Hayward was broken into with numerous weapons and ammo stolen.  Police dispatchers up and down the East Bay were broadcasting suspect vehicle info on this crime as this is a serious "officer safety" issue if they encounter this vehicle.  Fremont had some sporadic crime events, the best I could tell.  An armed hold up at the 7-Eleven on Central.  A possible burglary at a pharmacy on Mowry.  Something going on at the Walgreens on Decoto.  As if this isn't enough, someone lights off some serious fireworks on Paseo near Decoto shaking up an already nervous neighborhood.  The good news is that these were mostly property crimes, perhaps a "crime of opportunity" as police like to say.  There didn't seem to be an effort to confront the police or harm individuals.  One officer even commented that they are hitting the shoe stores...goods later to be sold on Ebay or a flea market.  Let's hope for a calmer night tonight.  The cops need a break and my scanners are overheating.

Whiskey Drinking Transient at the Red Lobster

The manager of the Red Lobster on Walnut called to complain about a transient that is refusing the leave the property.  He is now in front of the store drinking from a bottle of whiskey.  Fish and chips, anyone?

A Federal Officer Was NOT Shot in Oakland Friday

You have all seen the headline "Federal Officer Killed in Oakland".  This is not true.  Two private security contractors, hired to protect the federal Homeland Security building in Oakland were shot.  One died.  This is terrible.  But contractors are used to save money.  They were probably paid half of what a federal officer makes with little or no benefits.  Had the Federal Protection Service had their own officers there, perhaps their training would have led to a different outcome.  Here is what the FBI reported:

In a statement to KPIX 5, the FBI said the incident occurred at around 9:45 p.m.

“A vehicle approached the building,” the statement read. “An individual inside the vehicle began firing shots at contracted security officers for the Federal Protection Service of the Department of Homeland Security. One officer was killed and another injured.”

And this from a congressional hearing ten years ago:

 These 1,200 FPS employees are supplemented by 15,000 
security guards who are paid by private firms under contract 
with the Government. Every year, the costs of these contracts 
increase by 20 percent. For most people, the contract guards 
are the face of the Federal Protective Service. Unfortunately, 
the face has some disturbing features.
    In 3 years, this committee's oversight has uncovered FPS' 
failure to pay its contractors; security firms hired by FPS who 
fail to pay their guards; FPS' failure to require current and 
appropriate credentials for guards; FPS' and the security 
companies' failure to properly train guards; and FPS' inability 
to mandate that Federal tenants comply with security upgrades. 
These problems have led to security vulnerabilities that 
allowed GAO testers to enter Federal buildings guarded by 
contract guards with knives and guns.

Ped Struck by Car at Animal Shelter

A pedestrian has been struck by a 2019 Kia near the Tri City Animal Shelter off Stevenson around noon today.  An officer on scene confirmed that an ambulance was needed.

Crazy Man at the Water Park

A man with no shirt on is yelling at no one in particular in front of the water park on Paseo.  Officers are on the way to "keep the peace" on this cloudy Saturday morning.

Blog Update

As loyal readers have noted, there have been no updates in some time.   I wanted to take a minute to explain that due to the better weather and easing of restrictions, I have been busy with other projects.  I also have reached "scanner burnout" - one can only listen to so much dread on a daily basis.  During the times I have tuned in, much of the radio  traffic has been rather routine...drunks on the sidewalk, a stolen car here and there, family feuds, etc.  I will do my best to update this blog, especially on serious events, in the future. 

New Voices on the Scanner

Fremont Police Department
@FremontPD
We would like to welcome our newest members to the Department!  Officer Jaskirat Singh, Officer Chris Brown and CSO Sarah Carnahan have prior law enforcement experience and Sabrina Briggs joins us as a new Police Communications Dispatcher.

Hayward Police Dispatch Now on Internet

A volunteer is broadcasting the Hayward Police Department dispatch radio traffic live on the internet here:
https://www.broadcastify.com/webPlayer/32791

EDDIE HASKELL DEAD

I know, it sounds like an April Fool's headline, but Ken Osmond, who played Eddie Haskell in the TV show Leave it to Beaver died today.  He was 76 years old.  Interesting to note is that after his acting career Mr. Osmond joined LAPD and became a motor officer.  He retired in the late 80s after 20 years of service.

https://www.nytimes.com/2020/05/18/arts/television/ken-osmond-eddie-haskell-dead.html?action=click&module=News&pgtype=Homepage

Covid-19 Rises in 94538 ZIP

According to county health department stats, there are now 133 Covid-19 cases officially reported in Fremont.  The data, as of May 15th, indicates that there are now between 75 and 134 cases in the 94538 ZIP.  The other two Fremont ZIPS are showing fewer than 75 cases each.

Fremont's Violent Spring

There has been an unusual amount of violence on Fremont streets this Spring.  We are not used to that.  We are used to our stuff being stolen, whether a laptop from our car, a bicycle or car at home, or, on rare occasion, our home being broken into.  But until recently we didn't worry about physical harm while out and about around town.  That all seemed to have changed over the last five weeks or so.  On April 8th a man was shot in broad daylight in the parking lot of Lucky's on Mowry.  The police are tight lipped on this and no suspect has been arrested.  This may be a random act; not a targeted victim.  And a man was attacked by a mentally ill woman with a cricket bat on Fremont at Sundale.  He was taken to the hospital with head injuries.  She was arrested.  A random act.  Last week 3 men entered a Warm Springs residence, held the woman occupant at gun point while they ransacked the house.  Another random act, it appears.  This past Monday a mentally ill man assaulted three innocent people outside the Safeway at Five Corners.  He was arrested and the 3 victims were treated by paramedics for their injuries.  Tonight a woman in Niles was shoved to the ground and robbed of her purse.  He fled in a vehicle towards Union City.  The suspect was probably a career criminal.  A shooting took place last Saturday on Blacow Road.  The suspect and victim knew each other and had a dispute over money.  The victim is expected to live.  While this was not random, it did occur in an open area off of a public street.  I may have missed a few felonies as FPD does not publish a blotter of events like they did in years past, unfortunately.  Maybe they don't want us to know. 

Woman Shoved, Robbed of Purse in Niles

Officers are on scene now on Rock Avenue where a woman exiting her car at a condo complex was shoved to the ground and her purse stolen.  The robber was unable to take the phone or keys from the victim.  The suspect fled in a Suzuki Trooper small SUV that turned onto northbound Niles Blvd towards U.C.  The victim did not require medical attention.   No weapons were observed. 

Covid-19 at 120

According to county health stats, Fremont now has 120 confirmed Covid-19 cases.  This is up from 113 six days ago, so an increase of one per day (officially).  All three Fremont ZIPS continue to be in the lowest classification.

F15 Fighters To Fly Over Fremont Wednesday Morning

F15 fighters from the California Air National Guard will fly over Fremont tomorrow morning as part of a statewide tribute to health care workers.  According to their schedule, the Fresno based jets are not scheduled to overfly any hospital in the Fremont area, but will be transitioning from Oakland hospitals to those in Santa Clara County.  If on schedule, the flight of four jets should scrape over Fremont between 10:45 and 10:55 a.m.  Presently the weather forecast is for scattered clouds around 2,500-4000 feet.  The flight should legally be able to fly under the clouds during this transition, giving Fremont residents a great view,  plus enhanced roar of the jet engines. 

https://www.nbcbayarea.com/news/national-international/california-national-guard-jet-flyover-locations/2288848/

SHOWDOWN AT TESLA

Elon Musk says he has resumed production today in violation of county health orders.  Will those orders be enforced by Fremont PD, or does the City even want to get involved?  Story here in the L.A. Times:
https://www.latimes.com/business/story/2020-05-11/tesla-musk-coronavirus-factory

Man Assaults 3 in Irvington; Arrest Made (Updated)

A man assaulted three people at the Safeway Store at 5 Corners around 1:10 this afternoon before being apprehended at Fremont and Chapel.  He possibly sustained a dog bite during the arrest and paramedics were called for him.  Several people called police to report that a man on a bicycle had punched a Safeway employee, then shoved another person to the ground causing serious bleeding.  Paramedics were called for those two.   A third victim reported an assault but did not require medical aid and was now at home.  The man fled on a bicycle towards Fremont Blvd.  Based on the description given, officers had a good idea of who the suspect may be, an apparent transient male.  Officers rolled in code 3 as reports came in of multiple victims.  One of the responding officers spotted the suspect at Fremont and Chapel, but the suspect fled on his bicycle.  Within a minute he was detained, likely with the help of the K-9 unit.  From radio reports there were no weapons used- just his hands.

FPD news release:

On Monday, May 11th, at approximately 1:09PM, employees at the Irvington Safeway called about a suspect who punched an employee in the face and fled the store on a bicycle.  As officers were responding, 2 additional victims reported being struck in the face by the same suspect.  All 3 victims required medical attention for their injuries.  All 3 victims did not know the suspect, and stated that the suspect punched them in their faces for no apparent reason.

A K9 officer located the suspect in the area of Fremont Bl. and Chapel Wy.  The suspect fled from the K9 officer and refused to follow commands.  The officer deployed his K9 who engaged the suspect until officers could safely detain him.

37 year old Marcell Washington, a transient out of San Jose, was arrested for 2 counts of felony battery, misdemeanor battery, and resisting arrest.  He was booked into Santa Rita Jail.

Over the past several days, Washington has been arrested/cited by patrol for four other unrelated cases including several theft cases, and several theft/robbery cases.  Washington had been booked into the Fremont Jail on May 9th and remained in custody until the morning of May 11th, when the District Attorney’s office charged him with 1 count of robbery.  He was then released from custody with a future court date.  Washington then engaged in this series of battery incidents which resulted in another arrest and booking.   

The victims in this incident were treated at the scene by Paramedics and released. 

Helo Circling Mission San Jose

A helicopter made at least six large loops around the Mission San Jose area around 11:30 this morning.  The copter, N911JM, is a Vietnam era UH-1H Huey and is associated with a military preservation group.  The copter is based at Hayward Executive Airport, which it returned to at about noon.  Why it was circling is unknown. 

From the internet:

N911JM is a 1965 Bell UH-1H based at Hayward Airport in Hayward, CA., and operated by EMU Inc. This helicopter is a recreation of “EMU 309” (#68-16309), which served in Vietnam from 1969-1972. EMU Inc., is a non-profit corporation whose purpose is to preserve the history of the Huey
helicopter, the memory of the men who served in the 135th Assault Helicopter Company, and all assault helicopter companies that served in Vietnam.

The Experimental Military Unit was a joint Australian-American company-sized helicopter assault force during the Vietnam War. The unit was created in 1967 following a request from the United States military for Australia to send more helicopter pilots to the conflict. Because the only available
personnel were from the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) Fleet Air Arm (with Australian Army and RAAF pilots already heavily committed), the RAN Helicopter Flight Vietnam (RANHFV) was formed and integrated into the 135th Assault Helicopter Company of the United States Army.

Arrest Made in Blacow Road Shooting

From FPD:

Suspect Alexander Eullo arrested by Fremont PD SWAT following shooting

On May 9, 2020 at 12:20 p.m., a 46-year-old male victim arrived at Washington Hospital.  He advised staff he had just been shot and then collapsed near the emergency room doors.  An x-ray showed the victim had suffered a single gunshot wound to his back and the bullet was lodged close to his aorta.  Due to the location of the bullet and severity of the injury, paramedics requested a specialized ambulance to transport the victim to a trauma center.

Fremont patrol units responded to the hospital and immediately began to investigate the incident.  Crimes Against Person(s) detectives were called out and responded to assist with the investigation.  Prior to being transported to the trauma center, officers were able to speak with the victim and gather details regarding the shooting.

Evidence of a crime scene was found in a parking lot of a business, located in the 37300 block of Blacow Rd.  Video surveillance evidence and witness statements led to a potential suspect in the shooting (Alexander Eullo; 40-year-old resident of Union City).  An arrest warrant for Eullo was authored and signed by an Alameda County Judge.

The Fremont Police Department SWAT team was called in to help locate Eullo.  At approximately 11:55 p.m., Eullo was spotted in the parking lot of the Emmanuel Presbyterian Church in the City of San Jose.  Eullo initially ran from officers, but was safely apprehended.

The victim statement, video evidence, witness statements, physical evidence and suspect confession led investigators to believe that the shooting was not random; Eullo and the victim had known each other for some time and the shooting was a result of money owed between the two.  The victim’s medical condition has remained stable, and he is expected to survive his injuries.

Investigators believe the firearm used by Eullo was discarded in the area.  It’s believed Eullo threw the firearm out of a car window as he fled from the area.  The firearm is believed to be somewhere on Blacow Rd (between Central Ave and Eggers Dr.) near the west bush line.  Investigators have looked for the firearm but have not yet located it.  We are asking the public to be on the lookout for the firearm if in the area and immediately call 911 should it be found.  Please do not touch the firearm, as it is critical evidence in this case.

Eullo remains in custody (Santa Rita jail) on a no-bail hold for charges of attempted murder and discharge of a firearm at a person causing great bodily injury.  Eullo is also being held on two additional unrelated warrants.  The case will be presented to the Alameda County District Attorney for charging on the morning of May 11, 2020.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to please call Senior Detective Michael Gebhardt at 510-790-6954 or send an anonymous tip by texting TIP FREMONTPD followed by your message to 888-777, or via the web at https://local.nixle.com/tip/alert/6216337.

MAN SHOT ON BLACOW ROAD (Updated)

A man showed up at a local hospital with bullet wounds around 12:20 this afternoon.  The shooting occurred in an industrial area off Blacow between Thornton and Central.  At least two shots were fired, according to witnesses.  Officers are busy reviewing video from homes and businesses in the area.  The victim was reported to be in critical condition and is being transferred to a trauma center.  At least one shell casing has been located in a parking lot.
Updated at 3:15- this does not appear to be random...the victim and suspect seems to know each other.

Here is the FPD news release:

Shooting Investigation

Officers and detectives are currently investigating a shooting where a man was critically injured. 

Today at 12:20 p.m. dispatch received a call from Washington Hospital regarding a male victim with a gunshot wound.  As officers immediately responded, it was learned that the man had self-transported himself to the hospital on a motorcycle with a gunshot wound. Officers located the victim in the emergency room and he has since been transported to a trauma center with at least one critical wound.  He is currently in stable condition.

The circumstances remain under investigation.   Anyone with information about this incident is asked to please contact the Fremont Police Department at ‪510-790-6800‬ x3 or email Det. Gebhardt at Mgebhardt@fremont.gov.

Saddle Rack Closes For Good

The East Bay Times has the story here:

https://www.mercurynews.com/2020/05/08/the-saddle-rack-country-music-club-closing-its-doors-for-good/

Photo of the Day

This sign, observed at Lake Elizabeth, will be gone someday.  Not because the pandemic has ended, but because some juvenile delinquent will steal it.  Just saying.  Enjoy the warm weather while it lasts.

Huge Theft at Lucky's in U.C.

According to the manager, three males, all wearing shirts that said "Security", took $500 worth of items before fleeing in a VW Passat.  The take:  diapers, water and laundry detergent.  Officers are on the way.
Note:  At about the same time there was a theft attempt at Food Max on Walnut, but the employees were able to recover the stolen goods.   Suspects fled in a car. 

Vehicle Used in Warm Springs Robbery Located

According to the East Bay Times, the vehicle used in the home invasion robbery in Warm Springs Tuesday morning has been located by Hercules Police  and one occupant arrested. 

https://www.eastbaytimes.com/2020/05/05/suspects-sought-after-fremont-home-invasion-robbery/

Photo of the Day

A

A reader has provided photos of a CHP escort of a "wide load" on Washington Avenue and 680 around 9:30 last night. 

Covid-19 Now at 113

There have been 8 more cases in the last four days for an average of two per day.  Fremont Fire has completed a week of testing showing only about 5% of those tested testing positive for Covid-19, which is good news.  Now, those tested have come from all over the Bay Area, so it is unknown Fremont stats on the testing.  Fremont Zip Codes still show less than 60 cases in each of the three ZIPs.

2nd Alarm Fire at Fletcher Jones Motorcars on Cushing Parkway

FFD on scene and a second alarm has been pulled.  At 4:25 a crew advised that the fire was contained to one vehicle on a service rack and the fire is out.  There is lot of "overhaul" to be accomplished.
At 4:34 a Code 4 has been put out and the second alarm crews are returning to quarters.  There is a report of 20 vehicles in the service area damaged from heat, water and smoke.

Officer Injured at Centerville Post Office on 5150 Call

A Fremont patrol officer was apparently injured in a call related to a  mentally ill man at the Centerville Post Office on Dusterberry Avenue around 10:55 this morning.  While it is unknown why officers were dispatched to the post office, the first officers that arrived around 10:50 encountered the crazy man in the lobby and request a third officer to assist.  Shortly thereafter, according to radio traffic,  the man fled on foot and a foot pursuit began.  Another officer stated he would wait in the parking lot with the injured officer and requested paramedics.  FFD responded and was on scene for over 30 minutes.  The nature or cause of injuries is not known.  It is unknown if the officer was taken to a hospital.  In the meantime, officers caught up with the crazy man on Contra Costa Avenue and apparently tased him as an officer said "one on wire" and then requested paramedics. 

Woman Robbed at Gun Point in Warm Springs (Updated)

Three men robbed a woman of her handbag at her residence near Durham and Paseo Padre around 10:30 this morning.  At least one suspect had a handgun.  They fled in a  gray Chevrolet four door sedan or hatchback.  Apparently no injuries to the victim.  Officers are calling this a home invasion robbery.  Some cash in an envelope was taken and one wonders if she was followed home from a bank.

This turned out to be a very serious event.  Here is the info from FPD:

Home Invasion Robbery

On Tuesday, May 5, 2020, at about 10:35 a.m., a home invasion robbery occurred in the 2000 block of Laurel Canyon Court.  Two males with masks covering their faces entered the side garage door of the residence.  Both males were armed with handguns and confronted the homeowner in the master bedroom.  The suspects told the victim to lay on the floor and was not physically harmed.  The two suspects ransacked the master bedroom and took jewelry and cash before entering a vehicle occupied by a third suspect.  The vehicle fled the scene.  The suspects were described as all being black males in their 20’s wearing track suits.  Patrol handled the initial response before detectives arrived to assume the investigation. 

The investigation remains active and ongoing.  Anyone with information is asked to please contact FPD Investigations at 510-790-6900.

Naked Man Swimming in Pool

Apparently this is an ongoing problem at an apartment complex on Stevenson where a male resident swims in the buff, even on a cool 55 degree morning.  He was described as "having a small build".

Marijuana Grow House Fire

An off duty firefighter reported light smoke coming from the attic of a residence on Calypso Terrace, which is located in the area of Decoto and 880.  Fire crews had difficulty entering the home as the door were tightly secured.  Upon entering a marijuana grow operation was discovered.  The initial investigation is pointing towards an electrical fire. 

Car Theft Suspect Rung Up at Taco Bell

Yo quiero Taco Bell.  An alert officer spotted a stolen truck after hearing a broadcast of the stolen vehicle heading south on Fremont Blvd from Enea.  The stop was made in the Taco Bell parking lot in Centerville.  The officer held the driver at gun point until back up officers arrived.  Taco Bell was told to shelter in place.  The suspect is on probation for auto theft.  Yo quiero Santa Rita (although he will probably be cited and released).

The Fake Pizza Order Call

Two zone 3 patrol officers were dispatched to the Days Inn Hotel in Warm Springs at 6:34 this sunny Sunday morning for an "ascertain the problem" call.  According to radio traffic, a man had dialed
9-1-1 and is "pretending to order pizza".  The 9-1-1 call taker, sensing something was amiss, probed the caller a bit, but he would not answer any weapons related questions.  While officers were en route, the dispatch crew was able to search the callers phone number in the local database.  A few prior cases showed up including a 5150 event.  A call to the clerk at the hotel provided more info.  The caller had checked in with his sister a few hours earlier and he was acting strange at the time.  The clerk also said that he should be alone in the room.  At 7:07 the officers have put out a "code 4".

Afternoon Wrap Up - Baseball Bat Assault; Brandishing of Handgun (Updated)

A man was struck in the head with a baseball bat this afternoon near the 7-Eleven at Sundale and Fremont.  A citizen found him down on the ground and bleeding from the head on Liberty and Beacon.  He told officers  that a woman attempted to rob him but he had no money.  She then struck him in the head with the bat.  He was taken to a trauma center with a skull fracture.  A woman was taken into custody a few minutes later at Liberty and State.  Both victim and suspect appear to be transients.

Shortly after that a person called from near Walmart on Albrea saying a man in a truck brandished a handgun at them.  Officers located the truck behind a store on Albrae and Stevenson.  A man was detained and a gun was located in the truck.

From FPD:

Fremont Police Department  @FremontPD
A 37 year female was arrested this evening for striking a male victim in the head with a cricket bat while attempting to rob him near Liberty/Beacon.  She was booked on robbery & assault w/ a deadly weapon charges.  The victim suffered a non-life threatening laceration.

Covid-19 at 105

Up four more in three days...still at around one case a day.  The Alameda County health website now lists cases by zip code.  ALL FREMONT ZIPS ARE IN THE LOWEST CATEGORY.  Newark and Union City Zips have a moderate number of cases (100-139), but all Fremont zips are less than 60 each.

Juveniles Flee Traffic Stop

Patrol unit 3A16 attempted an enforcement stop on a suspicious vehicle at Serra and Serra Place at 11:46 last night.  The vehicle took off west on Serra, crossed Sutter and apparently crashed while turning north on Donner.  All of the juvenile occupants bailed out and fled on foot.  The officer, after calling for code 3 cover, chased after a female and took her into custody.  The girl, who could be heard crying in the background of radio transmissions, was escorted back to the scene where paramedics were called.  Officers rounded up a boy after a nearby homeowner reported a boy hiding on his porch.  Another female was located on Blacow after an off duty officer reported teens hiding in the area.  By midnight 3 were caught and 2 were still on the run.  Unknown if they were located or not, but officers and a drone were searching yards on Blacow until at least 1 a.m.

Thankless Transient at Holy Spirit Church

A volunteer handing out food to the poor at Holy Spirit Church in the Centerville District was approached by an older transient male this morning.  The man wanted to use the bathroom, but the volunteer refused.  Apparently this is an ongoing issue with this transient and the bathrooms have been abused by transients in the past.  Today this thankless man went to the bathroom in front of the volunteer, exposing himself.  Officers are on the way to hear his confession and offer penance.  Amen.

Update on Scanner Feed

The radio system that Fremont subscribes to for police, fire, parks, road dept, etc, is planning a major upgrade to technology in two months, July 1st.  The East Bay Radio Communications System (EBRCS) is scheduled to implement "phase 2" operations in late June, early July.  This change essentially doubles the available capacity of the system.  New radios for the users are out in the field now.  This system covers most of Alameda and Contra Costa counties.  How does this effect the Fremont Dispatch scanner feed?  The scanner now in use does not decode Phase 2 signals.  An upgrade to a $350-400 scanner would be required.  Prior to purchasing a used scanner for the feed, I want to make sure a)  phase 2 signals received on an appropriate scanner will have the same or better audio quality.  b)  the radio traffic is not encrypted.  During this transition I will be monitoring FPD via a phase 2 portable scanner and will be actively blogging.
The philosophy of EBRCS has always been to keep dispatch radio traffic "in the clear" and not encrypted.  Each department does have at least one encrypted radio channel available for tactical use, stake outs, etc.  Fremont PD has at least three such channels used by detectives and they cannot be decoded.  However, San Jose Police recently encrypted all of their channels, dispatch included, on the phase 2 system they use.  So, come July 1st the existing feed may be down for several days or weeks while a new scanner is purchased, assuming the signal quality is sufficient for a quality feed and encryption free.

EAST BAY REGIONAL COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM AUTHORITY

SUBJECT
ENCRYPTION POLICY
APPROVED BY
Board of Directors
2-17-2012
EFFECTIVE DATE
February 17, 2012
A. POLICY STATEMENT

The EBRCSA adopted the following policy:
1. Establish three (3) system wide Talk Groups to be used for encryption;
2. Establish that system users standardize on Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) if encryption is used;
3. Encryption should be an agency by agency decision;
4. Encryption should be confined to special operations and not used on primary dispatch talkgroups.
(my italics..Fremont Streets)

Another Homicide in Hayward

From HPD:

Hayward Police Department
9 hrs ·

***HOMICIDE INVESTIGATION***

Today, at about 4:17PM our officers responded to the area of Industrial Pkwy and Pacific Street to a call for service. Upon arrival, we located a man who was unresponsive. Emergency medical personnel pronounced the man deceased at the scene.

The identity of the deceased man is known, however being withheld at this time until proper notification is made to his family.

Anyone with information related to this homicide is asked to call 510-293-7176.

We want to thank the community for their patience as we continue this investigation. We will release more details as soon as possible.

The Hayward PD case number is 2020-026058.

Walnut Closure Announced - Thank You Bill Harrison

You may recall this is the huge high end apartment project going in where our beloved corn field used to be.  This closure seems to add insult to injury for local residents.  Thank you former mayor Bill Harrison!

City of Fremont, CA  @Fremont_CA
4h
As part of the construction for the Asher Apartments, eastbound lanes on Walnut Ave. between Guardino Dr. & Gallaudet Dr. will be closed May 1 – 13, 8:30 AM – 4 PM, weekdays only. Traffic will be detoured to Stevenson Blvd & Gallaudet Dr, westbound lanes will remain open.

Grass Fire Near Encampment

FFD on scene at a small grass fire in the "Triangle" area east of Mission and south of Old Canyon Road.  Crew having trouble accessing the fire due to an encampment blocking the dirt road.  Looks like they are coming in via Orangewood.  Original call was for a house fire on Mission and Pickering, so at least one crew had to return to pick up the type 3 off road rig.  Putting a "lot of foam "on the homelesss encampment now.  Per radio traffic  "this is a pretty well established homeless encampment".  Fire was put out quickly one crews arrived and now they seem to be tearing the encampment apart and applying foam to cool the hot spots.

Fremont Covid-19 Slowly Climb to 101

Five days ago we stood at 96.  Now only one case a day has been added (on average) to 101, according to stats through April 29.  With increased testing this is pretty amazing.  Sure there are many cases that are undetected, but an increase of 5 seems like nothing.  The sheltering in place has been quite effective in Fremont, it would appear.

Stolen Vehicle Arrest at the Hub

A license plate reader camera on Mowry by 880 picked up a stolen car heading east on Mowry just before noon today.  An alert officer got behind it on Mowry and followed it into the Hub where it parked in front of CVS.  The two occupants were taken into custody in short order.  Kinda wonder if the bad guys were thinking a committing a crime at CVS. 

Police Mum On Lucky's Homicide (updated)

Three weeks after a 32 year old man was shot in broad daylight in s supermarket parking lot officials have not released any additional information.  For starters the name of the victim, Anthony Garza, has not been officially released by FPD.  Most police agencies would release (and may be required by law) the victim's name soon after the next of kin have been notified.  Fremont seems to follow a different policy.  No updates from detectives as to how the investigation is going.  There were many witnesses to the shooting along with video footage from several cameras.  While this appears to be a targeted hit and not a random killing, the public deserves timely updates.

***  A comment below indicates that this may not have been a targeted killing.  More reason now for FPD to be out front about this.  Could happen again.

Update on Palomares Road Shooting

The East Bay Times has a story out on this shooting from yesterday.  The story says there was a pursuit and this is not correct, according to radio traffic.  The suspect's car was not "lit up" until turning onto Decoto Road and it then pulled over.  ACSO says the home owner shot at the vehicle as the driver was attempting to run him over and apparently not as it was fleeing the scene. 

https://www.eastbaytimes.com/2020/04/29/burglars-evade-gunfire-from-sunol-homeowner-but-not-arrest/

Palomares Canyon Homeowner Shoots at Fleeing Suspects

A homeowner on Palomares Canyon Road interrupted an auto burglary and then shot at the suspects car as they fled, striking the rear window.  One suspect was left at the scene, a small skinny female, who "took off into the hills".  An observant sheriff's deputy who was cruising along Niles Canyon Road near Sunol picked up the suspect vehicle west of Palomares Canyon Road.  Fremont Police were notified to assist and numerous cars could be heard rolling code 3 down Mission Blvd.  The deputy continued to follow the suspect vehicle as it turned north on Mission Blvd around 11:32 this morning.  FPD officers caught up with the pair as they approached Decoto Road in Union City.  After making the turn on to westbound Decoto, the deputy along with five Fremont officers "lit" up the car and it yielded.  In short order a male and female were detained.  The status of the female suspect left at the scene is unknown at this time, but a large search party was forming in the noon hour.

Update:  They now believe there is no outstanding suspect.  The woman in the passenger seat matches the description of the one that fled.  I guess the driver picked her up shortly after leaving and being shot at.  Also, deputies found a bullet hole in the passenger seat of the suspect vehicle, but the woman was not hit. 

Two Structure Fires in Centerville in 13 Hours

FFD is on scene to the second of two fires in the downtown Centerville District at this time.  Numerous people called 9-1-1 to report heavy black smoke coming from behind a building on Peralta near Fremont Blvd.  To the rear of a building a car was engulfed in flames and smoke which spread to an abandoned building.  From radio traffic it appears both the vehicle and building were abandoned.  At 12:25 this morning, some 13 hours earlier, FFD responded to an abandoned building fire on Fremont Blvd near Peralta.  Here is a tweet from the FD:

4h
On Tuesday, 4/28 at 12:25 AM, #FremontFirefighters responded to a fire in a vacant commercial building at 37438 Fremont Blvd. The one alarm fire was contained to the building of origin and extinguished within 20 min. No injuries. The cause of the fire is under investigation.⁣

Fremont Fire Department  @FremontFire
VIDEO: At 1:24 PM #FremontFirefighters responded to a vehicle fire that extended into a vacant building at 3812 Peralta Blvd. The one-alarm fire was extinguished within 10 minutes. No reports of injuries. The cause is under investigation. @IAFFLocal1689

Naked Man in Warm Springs

A transient who was sleeping in a grassy area across from Bob's Foam Factory in Warm Springs has removed his clothes.  All of them.  Officers are on the way in an effort to prevent sunburn.

Weekend Arrests Related to Cherryland Shooting

Two men arrested over the weekend by sheriff deputies are apparently linked to the shooting of an occupied dwelling on Meekland Avenue, north of the Hayward city limits,  early on April 15th.  The suspects were arrested for attempted murder, among other charges.   Here is a link to the one and only EBT story of the shooting:

https://www.eastbaytimes.com/2020/04/20/alameda-county-deputies-exposed-to-coronavirus-responding-to-hayward-area-shooting/

Sheriff Arrests Two For Attempted Murder

Two men in their 20s were arrested by Alameda County Sheriff's Deputies over the weekend, according to online arrest records.  One was a 21 year old Castro Valley man and the other a 27 year old Hayward man.  Neither one of them had a prior arrest record in California.  No press release has been issued to date, so not sure which homicide case these are related to.

Car Talk Puzzler

Since this is somewhat law enforcement related, I'll post this puzzler for your consumption.  The answer will not be out until next Monday.  So far, the answer is not obvious to me.

The High-Speed Chase

RAY: This puzzler was submitted by Chuck Leyderer, who writes:

Sergeant O'Malley and his rookie assistant Ned are just pulling out of the local donut shop. They get a call on the radio that the town north of them has had a bank robbery. The suspects are proceeding south, and it's a high-speed chase.

The chase has been going on for 40 minutes, and the radio says O'Malley and Ned should be on the lookout for a yellow Mustang with two men in the front seat and a woman in the back.

Just at that moment, they happen to see a yellow Mustang with two guys in the front and a woman in the back. Sargent O'Malley says, "That's the car, Ned! Flip on the siren, and let's get 'em!"

Ned, who's been studying the back of the car, says, "I don't think so, Sarge. It's not them."

What did Ned see?

Officers Not Being Dispatched To School Alarms

As you may know, many years ago the city of Fremont changed their alarm response policy.  The new policy stated that only verified alarms would dictate a police response.  That is, there needed to be live video showing someone in the building (or audio) or a witness observing someone going through a window, entering a yard, etc.  While both FPD and FUSD acknowledge a huge increase in burglaries and vandalism to Fremont schools, their alarm response policy has not been adjusted.  Monitoring the dispatcher in recent weeks, school district alarms continue to be dispatched as information to officers, and not an assignment to respond.  On occasion officers will respond on their own as they did a few weeks ago at Warwick Elementary.   FPD appears to be still operating on a 12 hour "tactical" schedule, thus allowing for  plenty of officers to be available to respond to alarm calls.

Stabbing Near The Hub

A family dispute has led to a stabbing in a residence off of Walnut by the Hub.  Officers and paramedics are on scene.  The victim is conscious and talking.  The suspect called dispatch to report what he did.  Several people are being detained.

Police Activity in Vallejo Mill Neighborhood

The SWAT team is active in the Vallejo Mill School neighborhood.  This is a domestic violence call with a handgun involved.  Apparently a man has threatened a woman with a gun.  She was able to leave the house.  The man is believed to still be in the house alone.  Officers are tying to get him to come out.
Update:  The suspect has exited the house and is now detained in cuffs (at 6:36 pm).  No injuries to anyone that I am aware of.

Helicopter Activity

A helo was observed flying low in the Niles area around 3 this afternoon.  After checking a flight tracking site and researching the tail number of the copter, this appears to be a pipeline patrol operation.  This was probably a PGE contract flight to check natural gas pipelines.  These copters 
have sophisticated gear to detect pipeline leaks.  The copter is based out of Livermore Airport.

Covid Update- 96 in Fremont

Through April 24 the Alameda County Health people are reporting 96 confirmed cases in Fremont.  As you probably know, the virus has been spreading for sometime here and the 96 number is probably very low.  Thanks to a reliable source, here is the latest web address for the county info:

https://ac-hcsa.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/1e0ac4385cbe4cc1bffe2cf7f8e7f0d9

Crazy Woman Keeps Cops Busy

A mentally ill transient woman showed up inside of Devout Coffee on Niles Blvd this morning.  The business was closed on the inside, but she made her way in anyway.  In addition to causing a disturbance there, she urinated on the floor.  Officers arrived, took her to the Fremont jail, and apparently issued a citation and released her.  Unfortunately Alameda County and the State of California have not funded or figured out what to do with mentally ill citizens on the street that cannot care for themselves.  So...a few hours later she shows up at Smart and Final on Walnut.  Employees observed her trying to steal some items, a bottle of water I believe, and stopped her.  She responded by throwing a chair at them and then left on foot.  Officers arrived and a witness pointed out an area on Liberty where she was hiding in the bushes.  She was located but it is unknown if she was taken to Fremont jail, Santa Rita or neither.  And this is just one example playing out across the state hourly.

Note:  A reliable source (OK, my sister in law) has informed me that the woman peed in a big gulp cup and then tipped it over on to the floor intentionally.  I believe she was cited for 594PC, malicious mischief, which may have been this and something else she did there as well. 

Yaris Outruns CHP - Fremont Stolen Car

A delivery man had his blue Toyota Yaris stolen from a north Fremont Blvd location this morning.   Fortunately he left his phone in the car and was able to track the location of the vehicle.  Eventually Fremont officers located the vehicle north on 880 at Tennyson Road in Hayward.  The vehicle initially pulled over to the shoulder, but then accelerated.  FPD did not pursue..pulled off the road, but CHP picked it up.  West on 92 they went with CHP trying to catch the Yaris that was now exceeding 110 mph!  A Yaris at 110!  As the pursuit crossed the San Mateo Bridge and entered Foster City, CHP officers lost sight of the stolen Yaris.  Meanwhile, Fremont officers were still off with the victim tracking the vehicle.  They noticed it had been stopped at a location for several minutes in the area east of 101 and north of 92.  A CHP aircraft was enroute to assist, but a CHP motor officer located the vehicle abandoned.  A witness said the suspect was observed walking away and changing shirts.  CHP officers flooded the area and eventually located and arrested the stolen car driver.   If you are expecting a package or food delivery, it may be delayed. 

Armored Truck On Fire at Chick-fil-A (Updated)

The fire department has asked FPD to assist at the scene of an armored truck fire in the parking lot of Chick-fil-A on Mowry.  Officers are needed to provided security.  It's not everyday that a truck loaded with money catches fire.
Photo from FFD Instagram.

From FFD:

Firefighters arrived to find a Loomis secure armored transport vehicle on fire in the rear parking lot of Chick-fil-A. The fire, located primarily in the vehicle’s engine compartment, was quickly extinguished. Due to the armored vehicle’s electronic entry system not being operational, crews forced entry into the vehicle to ensure Loomis personnel could safely off-load the unharmed monetary cargo to a replacement transport vehicle.⁣⁣
⁣⁣
One of the three Loomis employees assigned to the armored vehicle was treated at the scene for minor injuries (smoke inhalation) and released. There were no reports of injuries to Chick-fil-A patrons, employees, community members or firefighters. All of the businesses located near the rear parking area remained operational throughout the incident.⁣⁣

Police Activity in Niles Canyon (Updated)

Alameda County Sheriff deputies are searching an area about two miles in on Niles Canyon Road for a residential burglary suspect.  They have asked for assistance from FPD, including the K-9 unit.  The suspect was apparently fleeing from deputies but the location of the crime is unknown.  FPD is sending a drone as well.

From ACSO:

Alameda County Sheriff's Office
19 hrs ·

BURGLARY IN PROGRESS

Deputies were detailed to a burglary in progress on Niles Canyon Road in Sunol, CA.

Deputies spotted the suspect, Noorallah Kasir, running away from the scene up a steep hill. K9 “Queen” responded to the scene to assist and located the suspect after a lengthy track through challenging terrain.

K9 Queen apprehended the suspect and they both rolled over 100 yards down the hill. The suspect tried to fight K9 Queen but she would not let go. After an intense struggle with our K9, Kasir was taken into custody.

Kasir was treated at a local hospital for K9 bites and will recover. He was booked into Santa Rita Jail for burglary. He is currently out on bail for an alleged robbery in Hayward and is also on felony probation.

K9 Queen was taken to the vet after her tumble to make sure she was not injured. She was returned to full duty and we are grateful she is ok.

Sgt. Ray Kelly
Public Information Officer

Man Dies At Central Park

A man passed away in his vehicle parked outside the Senior Center on Paseo Padre this morning.  A citizen called FPD around 11:20 to report a man that appeared unconscious and not breathing in a vehicle.  An officer arrived a few minutes later and determined him to be deceased.  From radio traffic this does not seem to be a suspicious death.

First Known U.S. Covid-19 Fatality Worked in Fremont

You may have heard or read in the news that a Santa Clara County woman is now believed to be the first person in the U.S. to die from Covid-19.  The San Jose woman, Patricia "Trish" Dowd, worked at Lam Research here in Fremont, according to her obituary.  By all accounts, she was a wonderful woman.
A link to her obit here: https://www.cusimanocolonial.com/obituaries/Patricia---Trish-Cabello--Dowd?obId=11551175

A link to the L.A. Times story:  https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2020-04-22/coronavirus-first-known-fatality-us-california

Cool California Cop Cars

San Diego Sheriff's Office

Over the years, the sheriff's office's marked vehicles have sported unusual paint schemes. Originally in a traditional black and white, they transitioned to a pink-salmon color in the 1960s. From 1971 to 1991 the vehicles were painted kelly green-and-white which were the campaign colors of Sheriff John F. Duffy. When he retired the fleet was returned to the black-and-white color scheme and has remained so ever since. The department has also had a few all-white cars over the years, but these were for Traffic Enforcement and Volunteer Patrols only.

Today, the San Diego County Sheriff's Department utilizes the Ford Crown Victoria and Ford Explorer as their base models for their fleet. The Dodge Charger is the base model for SDSO Traffic Units.[