An Oakland gas station was the target of multiple flash mob robberies on July 6, 2024. Around 70 people descended upon the 76 Gas Station & Mini Market on Hegenberger Road in two separate incidents, causing approximately $150,000 in losses and threatening two employees.
The first robbery occurred around 4 a.m., with dozens of people milling around the store looking for things to steal. They pulled drinks from fridges and put stolen goods into boxes or baskets belonging to the store. The ordeal lasted around 40 minutes, during which some robbers climbed over the register to grab more items and one destroyed a light or camera while taking a snapback hat.
The second robbery took place later that morning when a group of people drove a car into the glass of the gas station's market before the looting began. The owner, Sam Mardaie, reported that around 40 to 50 people stormed into the store and stole approximately $25,000 in cash from the register and ATM.
The Oakland Police Department responded to both incidents but took several hours to arrive at the scene. In a statement, OPD said they were initially responding to a sideshow near the airport that had more than 100 vehicles at the scene. It wasn't until they saw video evidence of the robberies that they elevated their response and sent an officer to make contact with the owner.
Mardaie expressed frustration over the lack of immediate police response, stating, “This is the hardest thing you could ever go through... especially if you've been put in sweat and tears day in and day out.” He called for action from city leaders to address public safety concerns.
The incidents come after a string of crimes targeting businesses in the area, including an In-N-Out fast food restaurant that closed due to out-of-control crime. District 7 City Councilmember Treva Reid, who represents the area where the crimes occurred, continues to advocate for increased public safety resources and response.
