A promising life was tragically cut short over the weekend in Oakland, leaving family, friends, and colleagues in mourning. Fernando Castillo Rodriguez, a 23-year-old cherished son, cousin, and beloved member of the Oakland community, was fatally shot early Sunday morning near 85th Avenue. His death occurred outside an unlawfully operated nightclub that had reportedly been functioning without proper authorization for several months.
Fernando’s identity was confirmed both by local authorities and his family, who spoke publicly to honor his memory. According to relatives, Fernando was not just another victim of gun violence—he was a dedicated young professional and the manager of Wooden Table Baking Company, a well-known local cookie and baking business. He worked closely with his mother and aunt in a tight-knit family operation that emphasized craft, love, and dedication.
His cousin, Everlyn Roque, described Fernando as a quiet yet passionate soul who had lived in Oakland since childhood. “He was like a younger brother to me,” she said. “He had a passion for metal music, adored oysters, and was always a diligent worker.” Despite his soft-spoken nature, Fernando was the kind of person who lit up when someone truly engaged with him. He was a dependable family man who managed to balance professional responsibility with a genuine, kind-hearted personality.
On the night of the shooting, Fernando had been at the club but was reportedly preparing to leave and return home when tragedy struck. “He was trying to come back home,” Roque recounted with sorrow. “But he never made it.” The devastating news sent shockwaves through his family, who remember him as a bright light with a strong sense of commitment to his loved ones and his work.
Witnesses at the scene noted chaotic conditions as law enforcement descended on the illegal venue around 3:45 a.m. Sunday morning. Attendees described being zip-tied by police officers while the crime scene was secured and the investigation began. Despite the disruption, Fernando’s family and members of the community gathered for an emotional memorial on Monday, holding candles and leaving flowers near the site where he lost his life.
The Oakland Police Department has confirmed an active investigation is ongoing. However, no suspect has yet been identified, and the events leading up to the shooting remain unclear. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward and contact detectives at (510) 238-3821 or (510) 238-7950.
Fernando’s death serves as yet another painful reminder of the escalating gun violence that continues to plague communities across the country. But beyond the statistics and headlines, this is a story about a young man who had dreams, who worked hard, and who left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.
He was more than a victim—he was a baker, a music lover, a loyal family member, and a man with a bright future ahead of him. His memory now lives on through the stories shared by loved ones, the baked goods that bore his touch, and the hearts that are broken in his absence.
As his family grieves the senseless loss, the community wraps them in support, holding tight to the hope that justice will be served and that Fernando’s life will be remembered not for how it ended, but for how meaningfully it was lived.
Rest in peace, Fernando Castillo Rodriguez.
Your light was dimmed far too soon, but it will never be forgotten.
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