Antioch sees surge in shootings since Labor Day weekend

Since September 2, Antioch has experienced a troubling increase in gun violence, beginning with the fatal shooting of 21-year-old Elijah Scales. This incident marked the start of nearly a dozen shootings in the area, primarily concentrated around the location of Scales' death. The police have reported that eight of these shootings occurred within just five days, raising concerns about the safety of the community. In the aftermath of these events, at least five individuals have sustained injuries, including a 31-year-old man and a 52-year-old woman, both shot in separate incidents. The violence escalated further on September 12, when two men were critically injured during shootings at the Contra Costa County Fairgrounds and a memorial gathering for Scales. These incidents have heightened fears among residents and prompted a swift response from law enforcement. Interim Police Chief Brian Addington has emphasized the department's commitment to addressing this surge in violence, stating that such behavior will not be tolerated. In response to the crisis, the police have increased patrols in the affected neighborhoods, particularly the Sycamore Corridor, to enhance community safety and deter further incidents. The ongoing investigations aim to uncover any connections between the shootings and to restore a sense of security among residents and local businesses. The community is left grappling with the impact of this violence, as officials work diligently to prevent further tragedies and ensure public safety.