UPDATE: A 36-year-old man from Oakland, identified as Xavier Shirley, has been charged with assaulting two UC Berkeley police officers in a shocking knife attack. The incident unfolded on November 12, 2023, when officers attempted to disarm him, resulting in one officer suffering a serious cut to the hand from a 12-inch knife.
Authorities report that during the confrontation, officers struggled to control Shirley, who not only sliced one officer’s hand but also caused a minor injury to another. In response to the escalating situation, police deployed a variety of less-lethal measures including pepper spray and a stun gun, which were described as “ineffective” in subduing the suspect.
At his initial court appearance on Tuesday, Shirley was released from custody but given strict orders to stay away from the UC Berkeley campus. He has also been referred for mental health treatment, indicating the gravity of the situation and potential underlying issues.
This incident raises significant concerns regarding safety on campus and the handling of mental health crises by law enforcement. The attack occurred as officers were responding to a call, highlighting the unpredictable nature of police work in urban environments.
As this story develops, community members and officials alike are watching closely to see how the legal proceedings unfold and what measures will be implemented to enhance safety on campus.
Stay tuned for more updates on this urgent situation as it develops.
