Editor’s Note: Initial info provided to the Standard did not accurately portray the upcoming remembrance of victims of the Orinda mass shooting. The story has been updated with the correct info.
A promising Richmond teen is being remembered by her loved ones and community members as the anniversary of her tragic shooting death last Halloween approaches.
The family of Oshiana Thompkins and others will be decorating the fountain at the corner of Brookwood Rd. and Camino Pablo by the Orinda Theatre Square in Orinda in memory of Thompkins and the other victims of a 2019 Halloween house party shooting in that city.
Those wanting to contribute to the fountain memorial are encouraged to visit at a time convenient to them and decorate it with flowers, plants, supportive signs, notes, battery-operated votives, etc. through Wed., Nov. 4. After that date, remembrances will be removed. Contrary to previous info provided to the Standard, there will not be a vigil and candles are not permitted.
According to Thompkins’ family, the Halloween shooting case remains open. Thompkins’ cousin, Jazmine Perkins, said five male suspects were arrested approximately two weeks after the crime but were released due to lack of evidence.
Perkins said that “it was all just beginning for her” cousin when she was killed; the 19-year-old had just graduated from high school and was enrolled in Laney College’s Cosmetology program. “She was a young victim that just wanted to go out for Halloween and have a good time,” said Perkins.
Perkins said the family takes some solace in knowing that, since her death, Thompkins has helped save five lives, including that of a child, by having been an organ donor.\
Those visiting the fountain to honor the victims are encouraged to wear masks and maintain social distancing. Anyone with information about the Orinda crime should contact Lead Detective Jay Melen of the Contra Costa County Office of the Sheriff at 925-313-2648.
