Zahvon Hopson was charged with murder by the Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office April 28, 2026. Photo: Antioch PD
22-year-old Zahvon Hopson charged with killing Dimon Lasly Commodore, held on $2.19 million bail
By Ted Asregadoo, PIO, Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office
Martinez, California – The Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office has charged an Oakland man with the murder of a 20-year-old Antioch woman.
Zahvon Hopson, 22, was arraigned today, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, on a three-count criminal complaint stemming from the shooting death of Dimon Lasly Commodore. The charges include murder, possession of a firearm by a felon with a prior conviction, and unlawful firearm activity. The murder charge carries an enhancement for personally and intentionally discharging a firearm causing great bodily injury and death. The unlawful firearm activity count includes special allegations citing prior offenses in Contra Costa and Alameda counties.
As previously reported, Antioch police officers responded to a reported shooting in the 2200 block of Sycamore Drive on February 19, 2026, at 7:17 p.m. They arrived to find the victim suffering from two gunshot wounds. Despite life-saving efforts, she died at the scene. Hopson was later identified by Antioch Police.
Hopson fled before officers arrived. Also, as previously reported, following an extensive search, he was located in San Diego and arrested on April 10, 2026, with the assistance of local law enforcement.
Currently held at the Martinez Detention Facility on $2,190,000 bail, Hopson pleaded not guilty at today’s arraignment, denied all charges, allegations, and enhancements, and waived his right to a speedy trial. A preliminary hearing date is pending.
According to localcrimenews.com, Hopson was arrested on July 7, 2023, while a Richmond resident, for inflicting corporal injury on a spouse or cohabitant and assault with any means of force likely to produce great bodily injury. As an Antioch resident, he was also arrested on April 17, 2025, for resisting, obstructing or delaying a peace officer and intoxicated in public.
Case No. 04-26-01519 | The People of the State of California v. Zahvon Hopson
Free live music & entertainment, local food, family fun and, of course, wine – plus, after parties!
Enjoy performances by the former lead singer of Santana, Tina Turner Tribute and more
Antioch, CA – Sip, savor and celebrate Antioch at the Antioch Wine Festival, Saturday, May 9, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. The event will be a celebration of fine wines and gourmet street food, in Antioch’s historic, downtown Rivertown. Join us for a day and night filled with tastings, live music and culinary delights, plus, a family fun Kids Zone and After Parties from 8:00 p.m. – Midnight.
Food by Local Food Trucks, Street Vendors and Downtown Rivertown Restaurants
Experience the taste of local Antioch cuisine. From savory comfort food and handcrafted bites to fresh local flavors, bold seasonings, sweet treats, festival favorites and Rivertown restaurants offer something for every appetite. Whether you are looking for a sit-down meal before the festival, a quick bite between wine tastings or a delicious reason to explore downtown Antioch, the local food scene delivers an experience that is warm, welcoming and full of personality.
Family-Friendly Fun in the Kids Zone
The Antioch Wine Festival is not just for wine lovers — it is a full family-friendly experience, and our Kids Zone is designed to keep the little ones smiling all day long.
Bring the family to Waldie Plaza and let the kids enjoy a colorful, exciting play area filled with kid-friendly activities, inflatable games, bounce houses, sports challenges, and interactive fun. From basketball and football toss games to tic-tac-toe, slides, and playful inflatables, the Kids Zone gives children a safe and energetic space to laugh, play, and make festival memories of their own.
While adults enjoy wine tasting, live music, local food, art, and the beautiful Rivertown atmosphere, kids can explore a festival space created just for them. It is the perfect way to enjoy the Antioch Wine Festival as a family — with something special for every age.
Play. Laugh. Explore. Make memories.
The Kids Zone is where family fun comes alive at the Antioch Wine Festival.
Craft Beer & Cocktails
Quench your thirst with a wide selection of craft beer and cocktails. We have something for everyone, whether you prefer a classic margarita or a local IPA.
Meet the Chefs
Get to know the chefs behind your favorite street foods and learn about their culinary journeys. We have meet-and-greet sessions scheduled throughout the day.
Live Music & Entertainment
Enjoy live musical performances on stage in Waldie Plaza and entertainment. This year’s line-up brings together powerhouse vocals, smooth soul, Bay Area funk, rock, R&B including Santana’s former lead singer and a show-stopping Tina Turner tribute that will keep Rivertown moving from afternoon into the evening.
From the first note to the final encore, guests will experience the kind of live music that makes a festival feel alive — the kind that gets people dancing, singing along, raising a glass and making memories in the heart of downtown Antioch.
Entertainment includes The Millionaire’s Mentalist Dan Chan and Street Breakdance Performances featuring high energy, real talent and unstoppable moves. Don’t miss the action!
Tony Lindsay | 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
Grammy Award-winning vocalist, Tony Lindsay, is best known for his powerful 25-year run as the lead singer of Santana. With his soulful voice and dynamic stage presence, he brings a blend of rock, R&B and Latin influences that captivate audiences worldwide.
Mystique | 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Mystique is a high-energy Bay Area band known for their versatile sound, blending Latin, funk, R&B and party hits into an electrifying live performance that keeps the crowd dancing all day and night.
The Fell Swoop | 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Late afternoon, The Fell Swoop turns up the groove with a genre-blending powerful mix of original rock, pop, funk and soul with high-energy performances and tight musicianship that keep audiences fully engaged from start to finish. Proudly rooted in San Francisco, the band is known for dance-ready live performances. Their bio describes a high-energy sound built around tight grooves, vibrant horn arrangements, dynamic vocals, and a celebration-style performance that has taken them to stages including High Sierra Music Festival, SXSW, The Independent, August Hall, Boom Boom Room and more.
Lea Sweet: Tina Turner Tribute Artist | 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Get ready for a powerhouse performance as Lea Sweet brings the energy, soul, and unforgettable stage presence of Tina Turner that honors the Queen of Rock ’n’ Roll.
Known for her electrifying tribute show, Lea Sweet captures the spirit of one of music’s greatest icons with dynamic vocals, bold choreography, dazzling costumes, and the high-energy performance style that made Tina Turner legendary.
Her upcoming performance will celebrate the timeless hits, fierce confidence, and rock-and-soul legacy that fans know and love. From the first note to the final bow, audiences can expect a show filled with excitement, nostalgia, and nonstop entertainment.
Join us for an unforgettable Tina Turner tribute performance. This is one show you will not want to miss.
The Millionaire’s Mentalist Dan Chan
Dan Chan, The Millionaire’s Mentalist, will amaze you with his mind-blowing magic, mentalism and sleight of hand in an unforgettable interactive performance. With over 25 years of magic experience and 10,000 performances, Dan’s built a reputation performing for the biggest names in tech and finance,including Google, Facebook, AirBnB and more. His high-profile clients are proof of his credibility and the captivating experience he delivers.
Street Breakdance Performances
Throughout the afternoon, guests will be treated to live breakdance performances featuring exciting moves, crowd interaction, music, and nonstop festival energy.
These talented street performers will bring the spirit of urban dance to downtown Antioch with flips, freezes, footwork, spins, and show-stopping routines that are fun for all ages. Whether you are watching with friends, bringing the kids, or just walking through the festival, this is one performance you will want to stop and see.
The breakdancing crew will perform four 20-minute shows between 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM, giving festival guests multiple chances to catch the action.
Come for the wine. Stay for the music, food, dancing and unforgettable street performances.
Support Local Businesses
Enjoy shopping in the Rivertown stores, supporting local, small businesses and helping to keep our community thriving.
After Parties
The party continues into the night with more live music at two after parties from 8:00 p.m. to Midnight.
Suga-T
Suga-T at ROYAL BANQUET & EVENT HALLS. Suga-T will be performing live at the official after party at the Royal Banquet & Event Halls. Located at 509 & 517 W. 2nd Streets.
Suga-T is a 90’s sensational legendary multi-platinum and gold selling,trail blazing performer from the Bay Area known for underground and commercial hits all over the world. She is admired as the First Lady of the legendary group The Clickand holds the title as the biggest brother and sister Hip Hop duo in history.
Mystique at LA PLAZUELA. The party doesn’t stop — Mystique takes over La Plazuela for the after party. Located at 400 G Street.
Location & Free Parking
The Festival will be held on W. 2nd and G Streets and in Waldie Plaza. Directions: Take A Street, G Street, L Street from Highway 4 north toward the river to W. 2nd Street or take Auto Center Drive north, curve to the right east on W. 4th Street, drive to I or H Streets, turn left and into one of the free parking lots.
The dedicated public servant and CPA with an MBA offers 14 years of experienced financial leadership, integrity
By Allen D. Payton
For more than 14 years, Peter Karumbi has proudly served the people of Contra Costa County through his work in the Auditor‑Controller’s Office. His career began as an entry‑level Accountant I, and through hard work, integrity and a deep commitment to public service, Karumbi advanced to his current role as Assistant Auditor‑Controller.
With current Auditor-Controller Joanne Bohren not running for election after being appointed to the position last year, Karumbi is seeking the position with her support.
He is committed to:
Protecting the fiscal integrity of the County’s financial records;
Ensuring compliance with the California Constitution, state codes and Board of Supervisors directives;
Providing accurate, timely financial information to the public and county partners; and
Supporting county departments, employees, special districts and regional agencies with professionalism and respect.
Karumbi is also endorsed by retired Contra Costa County Auditor-Controller Robert Campbell, Retired Assistant County Auditor-Controller Harjit Nahal and California State Treasurer Fiona Ma.
His journey reflects not only professional growth but also a genuine dedication to strengthening the financial foundation of our county.
“I understand the responsibility that comes with managing public resources, and I have devoted my career to ensuring accuracy, transparency and accountability in county financial operations,” Karumbi said. “I understand the responsibilities of this office because I’ve spent my career performing them.”
He also has experience in the private sector having worked for four-and-a-half years in Accounts Payable for Ross Stores, Inc. in Pleasanton.
Karumbi earned the designation of Certified Public Accountant in 2015 and earned a Master’s of Business Administration in 2013 from Cal State East Bay’s School of Business & Economics.
The first-time candidate for public office is married to Margaret Ng’ang’a and they have four daughters.
47-year-old man who lives in same home detained, questioned
By Acting Sgt. John Cox #5705, Antioch Police Investigations Bureau
ANTIOCH, CA. — Antioch Police Department is investigating a suspected homicide following a late-night incident on Saturday, April 25, 2026.
Officers responded at 11:16 p.m. to a residence in the 1900 block of Wilson Court to assist Emergency Medical Services with a report of an unresponsive man. The man, a 50-year-old Antioch resident, was found not breathing by EMS personnel and died at the scene despite life-saving efforts.
Preliminary information indicates the man became unresponsive following an altercation with another resident.
Crime Scene Investigators and detectives from the Antioch Police Department’s Violent Crimes Unit are leading the investigation. A resident of the same home, a 47-year-old man, was detained and interviewed by detectives.
The case remains under investigation, and no further details are being released at this time.
The Investigations Bureau will provide additional updates as they become available. Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Ibanez at (925) 779-6890 or ribanez@antiochca.gov.
During a special meeting on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, the Antioch City Council will again discuss the 2026-27 budget and vote on joining a new joint powers authority (JPA) to fulfill state-mandated stormwater treatment obligations. Formation of the JPA could lead to new property tax assessments. The Council will also vote on spending over $7.7 million on various City expenditures including $500,000 on new furniture for the Police Department and Animal Services.
Budget Study Session
The Budget Study Session will begin at 6:00 p.m. to discuss and provide feedback and direction to City staff regarding the budget development information provided for the Fiscal Year 2026-27 budget. Worksheets for Special Revenue, Capital Project, Internal Service, Antioch Public Finance Authority and Housing Successor to the Antioch Development Agency Funds. Enterprise, Street Light and Landscape, Recreation and Animal Service Fund budgets will be presented at a future meeting.
Closed Session
Before the regular meeting, the Council will hold a Closed Session beginning at 4:30 p.m. to discuss potential litigation and the new City Attorney’s Performance Evaluation. Since Lori Asuncion just started in the position on March 2nd, the meeting will most likely be to discuss goals and the council’s desires for her upon which she will later be evaluated.
The Contra Costa County Regional Alternative Compliance System Joint Powers Authority for Off-Site Green Stormwater Infrastructure flow chart. Source: Contra Costa Clean Water Program
Contra Costa County Regional Alternative Compliance System Joint Powers Authority for Off-Site Green Stormwater Infrastructure(Say that three times!)
Under agenda item 5, the Council will discuss and vote on joining the new Contra Costa County Regional Alternative Compliance (RAC) Joint Powers Authority (JPA), an innovative, regionally supported approach to fulfilling state-mandated stormwater treatment obligations. Developed through a partnership between Contra Costa Clean Water Program (CCCWP), the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the San Francisco Bay Regional Water Quality Control Board (“San Francisco Bay Water Board”), the RAC System provides an off-site, alternate compliance mechanism for the Off-Site Green Stormwater Infrastructure (GSI) that would normally be required on site.
According to the City staff report for the item, the council vote will include authorizing the JPA to establish one or more community facilities districts (CFDs), accept applications from property owners, annex properties to the CFD, and levy special taxes to finance on-going maintenance costs for the GSI.
Participation in the RAC JPA will require the City of Antioch to contribute to the JPA’s annual operating cost.
According to the RAC’s webpage, “The Regional Alternative Compliance System (RAC) is a revolutionary new funding system that provides a market-based, regional approach to stormwater treatment. Developed by the Cities of San Pablo and Walnut Creek, unincorporated Contra Costa County, and the Contra Costa Clean Water Program,the RAC is a first-of-its-kind model that provides sustainable long-term financing for larger, more strategic, regional green infrastructure projects.
“Instead of requiring each individual infrastructure project to handle stormwater on-site, developers can purchase “compliance units” in larger, shared green infrastructure facilities. This improves efficiency, directs resources to pollution hotspots (often in disadvantaged communities), and creates a dedicated funding stream for long-term maintenance. It’s a scalable solution for stormwater managers across California and beyond.”
Who is RAC For?
Developers
Some development and redevelopment sites may have constraints (size, steep grades, etc.) that make it difficult to build on-site stormwater treatment. When a project has difficulty building MRP-required stormwater treatment on-site, it can use the Contra Costa County RAC System to comply with the MRP.
Municipalities
Municipalities may purchase compliance units to comply with MRP Provision C.3.j impervious surface retrofit requirements. Additionally, municipalities with Regulated Projects, such as large road reconstruction projects, could use the Contra Costa County RAC System to comply with the MRP. Municipalities may also act as “sellers” through the Contra Costa County RAC System.
Non-profits
Non-profits or other environmental organizations may be interested in building GSI facilities that can be partially funded by selling compliance units through the Contra Costa County RAC System.
Contractors
Developers or contractors may be interested in building Off-Site GSI Projects to generate compliance units that can be sold through the Contra Costa County RAC System.
LEARN MORE ABOUT RAC
The RAC System is backed by $1.6M in U.S. EPA grants. RAC is being piloted now and will expand countywide by 2026, setting a model for stormwater managers across California.
At the beginning of the regular meeting, the Council will receive two presentations. The first is a Technology Assessment & Roadmap Presentation from Tenjumps. The firm was hired by the City to “first assess the current state of the existing technology, then determine the desired future state, and create a roadmap to achieve it.”
The roadmap includes the following steps:
Fully adopt the NextRequest System for the Public Record Act request process, standardizing PRA management by transitioning all cross-department activity from email-based process into NextRequest.
Implement an agenda management system to manage City Council and public meeting agendas , materials, and actions items
Migrate business licensing function from LicenseTrack to Tyler Enterprise Permitting & Licensing software. It provides financial, human resources and revenue management solutions for cities, counties, and special districts;
Establish automated interfaces across systems that capture revenue into the central revenue sub-ledger within Tyler ERP Pro (Enterprise Resource Planning);
Complete the remaining implementation of Trimble Unity Maintain for the water treatment plant and decommission MobileMMS usage. According to the company’s product brochure, it is “cloud-based, GIS-centric enterprise asset management software that enables owners of complex properties and infrastructure to increase efficiency and reduce costs by optimizing asset operation and maintenance”;
Enable city departments to submit and track service requests to Public Works through Unity Maintain;
Centralize and automate manual human resources reporting to eliminate current manual processes and provide HR with accurate and automated daily reporting;
Create a technology enabled workflow to catalogue and track approvals for contracts to replace manual, email-based contract routing;
Create a structured framework to guide how the City identifies, evaluates, and acquires software systems; and
Establish a technology training program to empower city staff to better utilize everyday productivity tools along with specific functional tools essential to their departments.
The Closed Session will begin and the Budget Study Session and regular meeting, beginning at 7:00 p.m., will be held in the Council Chambers at City Hall located at 200 H Street in Antioch’s historic, downtown Rivertown. It can also be viewed via livestream on the City’s website, on Comcast Cable Channel 24 or AT&T U-verse Channel 99 and a recording posted later on the City’s YouTube Channel.
ANTIOCH, CA — The City of Antioch began its annual weed abatement program on March 30, 2026, with work continuing on or before June 30, 2026, to help reduce wildfire risk in City-owned open spaces.
Each year, the City coordinates this effort with the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District (CCCFPD) to mow and disc vegetation in designated areas. This seasonal work is an important part of Antioch’s wildfire prevention efforts and helps limit the spread of fire during the dry season.
Residents with questions or concerns may contact the City of Antioch Public Works Department at (925) 779-6950 or by email at publicworks@antiochca.gov.
Join us for a community meeting with the Antioch Police Department on Monday, April 27 at 6:30 p.m. at St. Ignatius Church, 3351 Contra Loma Blvd.
During the meeting, we will share updates and discuss issues or concerns affecting the community. This is an opportunity to ask questions, receive helpful information and engage directly with your Police Department.
For those attending, please note:
– Enter through the Parish Hall entrance
– Park in the nearby lot as shown in the attached location photos
– Please do not enter through the main church entrance
We encourage all interested community members to attend.
Antioch City Manager Bessie Marie Scott. Photo: City of Antioch
In second year of two-year contract
“It sounds hard, and it is – but JOY abounds here!” – Bessie Marie Scott
By Allen D. Payton
Antioch City Manager Bessie Scott is currently serving in the second year of her two-year contract since being hired for the position on a split, 3-2 City Council vote in August 2024 less than three months before the election. With a new mayor and two new council members some residents didn’t expect Scott to last more than another six months at the most. But, 18 months later she continues serving in the position and has shared information about the role of city manager and her experience.
On Scott’s LinkedIn profile she provides a description of her position:
“As City Manager for the City of Antioch since October 2024, I contribute to key municipal operations by leveraging expertise in financial understanding, policy implementation, economic and community development, and crafting effective policy implementing and business communications.My role involves fostering organizational efficiency, staff development, enhancing regional partnerships, and driving initiatives that align with the city’s priorities, Council goals, and community needs. It sounds hard, and it is – but JOY abounds here!”
Then earlier this month, Scott shared the following about the role of city manager and her experience in the position:
One of the most misunderstood jobs in local government is the City Manager!
People often assume the role is about authority.
It’s not.
It’s about responsibility.
Scott responds to a question from a council member during the Budget Study Session on Tuesday, April 21, 2026.Video screenshot
Hi, I’m Bessie Scott, the first female City Manager in Antioch, California. I’m also a Black woman serving in a profession where leadership has historically looked very different.
Over time, I’ve learned there are a lot of misconceptions about what city managers A C T U A L L Y do.
Here are a few things people often get wrong about the role.
1. “City managers run the city however they want.”
In reality, city managers work at the direction of an elected city council. Our job is to implement policy, provide professional advice, and make sure city services are delivered effectively.
2. “It’s just a management job.”
Yes, we manage organizations — but we also navigate politics, community expectations, crises, labor negotiations, infrastructure planning, economic development, and public trust… often all at the same time.
3. “The work happens in council meetings.”
Council meetings are just the visible tip of the iceberg. The real work happens long before the meeting — in planning, listening, problem-solving, and coordinating across departments.
4. “City managers stay out of the public eye.”
In today’s environment, city managers are often front and center during community challenges, emergencies, and major civic decisions. As an Introvert, this is my LEAST favorite truth as I’m more of a Best Supporting Actress kinda girl!
5. “It’s a purely technical role.”
The technical skills matter. But the truth is that emotional intelligence, resilience, and the ability to bring people together are just as critical. Local government is where democracy becomes real for people. It’s the street someone drives on every day.
The park their kids play in.
The safety of their neighborhood.
The future of their community.
City managers sit at the intersection of all of it.
It’s challenging work. It’s often misunderstood work.
But it’s also some of the most meaningful work in public service.
I’m proud to serve alongside so many dedicated professionals in this field, including those connected through the International City/County Management Association, the National Forum for Black Public Administrators, the League of California Cities, and the National League of Cities.
——-
The official description of Scott’s job and responsibilities is provided on the City Manager’s webpage:
The City of Antioch operates under the City Manager form of government. Under the policy direction of the City Council the City Manager serves as the Chief Administrative Officer of the City; assumes full responsibility for planning, administering, directing, overseeing, and evaluating the activities and operations of all City departments.
Responsibilities
Implementing City Council policy
Directing departments and the City’s administrative functions
Providing day-to-day leadership in policy development and implementation
Assuring an efficient and equitable delivery of City services
Initiating and developing short and long-term special projects
Overseeing the annual budget process
Managing the City’s inter-governmental relations and public information functions
Directing major economic development projects
The City Manager’s contract
Scott’s contract is up for renewal in September. She serves at the pleasure of the city council and renewal requires three votes of the five members.
