An Oakland police officer was tragically killed early Friday while responding to a burglary in progress in the Jack London Square area. The fallen officer, a four-year veteran and part of an overnight burglary operation, was "ambushed and shot" according to the Oakland Police Officers' Association. This marks the 54th Oakland police officer to be killed in the line of duty.

The incident unfolded at around 1 a.m. when officers responded to a report of a possible burglary in progress at a business on the 400 block of Embarcadero. The area was quickly cleared by law enforcement. However, at 4:33 a.m., officers received another report of a burglary in progress at the same location. Uniformed and plainclothes officers involved in the burglary operation promptly arrived at the scene and observed multiple individuals fleeing.

During this intense situation, at least one suspect discharged several shots, striking an officer who was driving an unmarked vehicle and dressed in plain clothes. The injured officer was immediately rushed to a hospital, but unfortunately succumbed to their injuries and was pronounced dead.

The Mayor of Oakland, Sheng Thao, expressed her deep condolences, stating, "Oakland this loss cuts deep. This senseless murder of a police officer, one of the guardians of our beautiful city, it will not stand." She also assured the community that Oakland would work diligently with law enforcement partners to find those responsible for this assault on the city and bring them to justice.

Video footage from the scene revealed a white pickup truck that had crashed into a parked vehicle. The truck showed signs of multiple bullet holes and shattered windows. Additionally, evidence tags and shell casings were found scattered across the street.

As the investigation into this tragic incident continues, police are actively searching for a suspect. The Oakland Police Department has urged anyone with information related to the case to contact them at 510-238-3821.

A procession to honor the fallen officer took place in the afternoon. The Oakland Police Officers' Association President, Barry Donelan, extended his condolences and stated, "Our members are devastated by this unwarranted attack and the loss of one of our family. As we mourn, rest assured that we are also determined to bring this cop killer to justice."

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that law enforcement officers face daily in protecting their communities. The Oakland Police Department, along with its partners, remain committed to ensuring the safety of the city's residents and will work tirelessly until those responsible for this heinous act are apprehended.