Riots broke out in Oakland, California, on January 7, 2009, during a protest of the death of a young man who was fatally shot by a police officer on a train platform on January 1. The 22-year-old man, Oscar Grant, was apparently shot by Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) police officer Johannes Mehserle, who has since resigned his position. Over 100 people were arrested in relation to the riot.KCBS: Aftermath of Violent BART Protests (January 8, 2009) While protesters gathered again on January 14, 2009, at the Oakland City Hall, community activists urged peaceful demonstrations. However, a small group smashed windows in cars and businesses downtown during the event. A total of 18 were arrested for vandalism during the demonstrations.Fox News: Protesters ... Go On Window-breaking Rampage (January 15, 2009)

Over 100 rioters were arrested for vandalism, arson, inciting a riot, gun possession, assault on a police officer and other offenses. The suspects arrested on misdemeanors have been cited and released, but several suspects are still in jail, awaiting possible felony charges.San Francisco Chronicle: Some arrested in Oakland violence could face felony charges (January 8, 2009)

Oscar Grant was fatally shot by BART police officer Johannes Mehserle on January 1, 2009. Video from a cell phone captured the shooting. Police say they pulled Grant off a train because he was involved in a fight inside. Mehserle, 27, resigned from the police department on January 7. Police have confirmed that Mehresle shot Grant.San Francisco Chronicle: Some arrested in Oakland violence could face felony charges (January 8, 2009)