Mother of 8 Killed in Oakland

In a heartbreaking incident in East Oakland, Blanca Velasco and her daughter, Maria Ramos, attempted to confront a group of suspected drug dealers parked outside their home, aiming to protect their children. The situation escalated when Ramos, 33, was shot by one of the individuals in the vehicle, leading to a profound loss for Velasco and her family. A memorial now stands outside their home, symbolizing the grief and shock that has enveloped the community. Velasco recounted the harrowing moments leading up to the shooting, expressing her concern for her children, aged 11 to 16. She believed a conversation with the suspects could help de-escalate the situation. However, as the confrontation unfolded, Ramos bravely stepped out of the car, only to find herself in grave danger. Velasco described the chilling moment when she made eye contact with the gunman, prompting her to flee the scene in a desperate attempt to protect her daughter. Despite her efforts, Velasco returned to find her daughter had been shot. She expressed her frustration with the emergency response, recalling how she was put on hold when she called 911. The emotional toll of the incident has been immense, as Velasco struggles to cope with her loss while caring for her 13 grandchildren, who now rely on her for support. The community mourns alongside Velasco, highlighting the ongoing issues of violence and safety that plague neighborhoods like East Oakland.