Man found guilty of murder in bar shooting over family altercation

In March 2022, Louis Woods III was involved in a fatal shooting incident outside a San Leandro cocktail bar, Cunha's Cocktails, following an altercation that began between his father and another patron, Brian 'Marquis' Moore. During the incident, Woods, armed with an assault rifle concealed in his backpack, shot Moore, leading to his death. This tragic event highlights the ongoing issue of gun violence in the community, as prosecutors noted that had Woods not had access to a firearm at that moment, the confrontation might have ended without fatal consequences. The case garnered attention for its implications on public safety and gun control, with District Attorney Pamela Price emphasizing the need to address the epidemic of firearm accessibility, particularly in volatile situations. Evidence presented in court included the recovery of the AR-15 style ghost gun used in the shooting from Woods' residence in Oakland, underlining the seriousness of the crime and the planning that may have gone into the availability of the weapon. After deliberation, the jury convicted Woods of second-degree murder, and he faces a sentencing hearing scheduled for January 24, 2025, where he could receive a sentence of 25 years to life in prison. The community's response has been one of shock and trauma as they grapple with the reality of such violence occurring in public spaces, and the devastating impact it leaves on families and friends of victims. This case serves as a reminder of the constant struggle against gun violence in the community and raises questions about the responsibilities and regulations surrounding the possession of firearms. The outcome of Woods' sentencing may evoke a range of reactions, pushing community leaders and citizens alike to confront the deeper issues associated with crime, violence, and the accessibility of weapons in their environment.