More than 200 cars, 300 spectators at 2 intersections

By Antioch Police Department

Last night, Friday, Sept. 26, 2025, we teamed up with our friends at CHP Golden Gate for a DUI and sideshow suppression detail funded by CA Office of Traffic Safety. Our planning paid off. We located two intersections where more than 200 vehicles and roughly 300 spectators were gathering to start a sideshow.

Eventually, the crowd overtook Hillcrest Avenue and the E. 18th Street intersection, blocking traffic and preventing fire trucks and ambulances from getting through. Together, we stopped the activity before it escalated further.

• 22 vehicles seized for 30 days
• 4 stolen vehicles recovered
• 30+ citations issued
• Several felony arrests made
• 1 DUI arrest

Sideshows are not only dangerous for drivers and spectators they also put our entire community at risk by blocking emergency vehicles from doing their jobs.

A big thank you to @chpgoldengate for partnering with us to keep our community safe!

Brings department’s sworn staffing to 85

By Allen D. Payton

The Antioch Police Department promoted two leaders, Captain Matt Koch and Lt. Bill Whitaker, and added two new officers, Jordan Morrow and Nicholas Kegle, to the force during an oath of office ceremony Thursday afternoon, September 11, 2025. Led by Captain Desmond Bittner, who filled in for Chief Joe Vigil due to a scheduling conflict with a court appearance, the ceremony included introducing the four men, their backgrounds, pinning of badges by their relatives and the oaths of office and Honor inside the Nick Rodriguez Community Center Theater in Antioch’s historic, downtown Rivertown.

Opening Remarks

During his opening remarks, Bittner said, “Anytime we swear in a new officer or promote an officer to a higher rank, it is a special time…due to the sacrifice, commitment, sweat and tears that the officers and their families endure to get to this point.”

“Today, we have two officers who have dedicated six months of their lives to a grueling police academy and two others who have dedicated over 20 years of their lives to the profession. And it is my honor to present the four officers to you today,” he continued.

“As I said, this is a special day, and we want to make it as special as possible for the officers, but I think it is also important to acknowledge before we begin, that today is 9-11, and it is important that we never forget all who paid the ultimate sacrifice during that tragic event and the aftermath,” Bittner stated.

He then recognized the city manager, mayor and council members, department heads, former Antioch Police Chiefs and current department staff in attendance. Bittner also thanked the hiring, recruiting and training team saying, “They have played a key role in our ongoing…efforts over the years.”

“Becoming a police officer is no easy task. Promoting through the ranks of a police department can be even harder,” he stated. “The law enforcement profession is demanding and requires commitment, dedication, support and is extremely rewarding. Officers play a vital role in protecting and helping the public, maintaining order, responding to emergencies and preventing crime.”

Bittner then congratulated the two being promoted and said, “The promotional process for police administrators is difficult an requires self-awareness, technical skills, leadership, teamwork and most of all, exceptional reading and writing skills. Both…participated in a rigorous process which was comprised of a written assessment, community interview panel, professional interview panel and a taxing interview with the Chief.”

“The overall process is time-consuming and very stressful, not only for them, but also for their families,” Bittner shared. “These two individuals have also played a pivotal role in helping move the department forward and I thank you both, personally, for your continued service and commitment to the police department and community.”

“Along with the two promotions, today we are pleased to welcome Officers Nicholas Kegle and Joran Morrow, who earlier this week, completed Alameda County’s 183rd Police Academy,” he said. “It requires individuals to commit six months of their life to learning the basics in arrest and control tactics, emergency driving, investigations, criminal and civil laws and statutes, evidence procedures, defensive tactics, firearms training, physical fitness and report writing. Academy recruits are constantly learning through different means and being tested on their understanding of the above-mentioned fields of study.”

“Your loved ones and co-workers have endured six months of complex and detailed training,” Bittner continued. “Now that they are here, back home, with their Antioch Police family, their real training will begin. Their Field Training Officers will teach them to expand what they have learned in the last six months and apply it with practical application. I encourage you and your families to continually support each other as you all progress through training and begin your policing career.”

“Today, in front of their loved ones and co-workers, all the officers will take the oath of office and be sworn in as Antioch Police Officers and managers,” he stated. “Their policing careers will continue as they move through field training and learn to apply everything they have learned. Our supervisors will continue to grow and lead the next generation and existing officers into a bright future. Today, our officers will take the International Association of Police Chiefs’ Oath of Honor, which is our pledge to uphold ethical standards and serve the community.”

Captain Matt Koch

Bittner then began introducing Captain Matt Koch (pronounced “Cook” – like the pirate), saying he was born in Hollywood and was a trust fund baby, to laughs from Koch, his parents who were in the audience, and others in attendance.

Bittner then read Koch’s actual bio:

“Captain Matt Koch started his policing career with the Antioch Police Department in 1996 as a police explorer. He would work his way up to a Community Service Officer and Reserve Police Officer before becoming a police officer in 2001. Throughout his time in the Antioch Police Department, Captain Koch has been promoted through the ranks and served as a corporal, sergeant, and most recently a lieutenant. 

“Over the course of his career, Captain Koch has been assigned to investigations, been a canine handler, was a field training officer, worked on the FBI Safe Streets Task Force, served on the SWAT team, and has been an instructor in defensive tactics. Captain Koch had the opportunity to oversee the explorer program, canine unit, honor guard, SWAT team, investigative unit, field training program, and spend time in the internal affairs division.

“Captain Koch has an Associate Arts & Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice from California Coast University. He also graduated from the Supervisory Leadership Institute in 2024. Recently, Captain Koch has worked with our police oversight commission, the Department of Justice, and our federal monitor to update and improve our policing policies and practices to improve transparency and increase the community’s trust.

“Captain Koch enjoys camping, in his RV and barbecuing and smoking food in his backyard. Family is one of Captain Koch’s top priorities and he enjoys spending time with them and supporting and cheering his daughter on as she plays softball and soccer.”

Koch asked his parents to pin on his new Captain’s badge then shared prepared remarks. “If I get a little emotional that’s because I probably am,” he began and then acknowledged “some of the incredible leaders in this room, current and former chiefs, captains, lieutenants, sergeants, corporals, along with friends from our neighboring agencies, friends and family. Your presence here, today truly humbles me. All of you have guided me, mentored me and set the standard of what leadership should look like in the law enforcement profession.”

During his leadership training he said, “We were asked to define two values as leaders and mine were love and family. It might sound a little unusual in policing but to me it makes perfect sense. Love means leading with compassion, respect and a genuine commitment to the people we serve and the people we lead. Family means supporting each other as a team and that every officer goes home safe at the end of the day.” (See video of Koch’s complete remarks)

Lieutenant William “Bill” Whitaker

Bittner then shared about Whitaker saying, “Lt. William Whitaker was born in Tennessee and grew up in the Bay Area. His policing career began over 24 years ago at the Sunnyvale Department of Public Safety. He would spend over 18 years there working as a firefighter, police officer, and EMT. As an officer he worked as a CSI Technician, Field Training Officer, canine handler, and detective.

“Lt. Whitaker would come to the Antioch Police Department in 2020 and work his way through the department as a corporal and sergeant. During his time here in Antioch, he would work as a drone operator, instructor, background investigator, detective, patrol supervisor, and most recently the supervisor of our investigations division.

“Lt. Whitaker has a bachelor’s degree in public relations with a minor in Communications from San Jose State University. He also has a master’s degree in criminal justice from California Coast University.

“Bill enjoys teaching and mentoring the next generation of police officer. In his time off he enjoys relaxing with family and friends, watching his son play football, and watching documentaries. Bill is honored to be promoted and is excited for the new challenge and further serving the community of Antioch.”

Whitaker then had his wife perform the badge pinning and followed with his own thoughts and thanks to “my family, first and foremost, who supports me and deals with all the stresses that the job, unfortunately has at times.” Whitaker then thanked former Chief Tammany Brooks who was in attendance saying, “A big thank you to you for believing in me and kind of…talking me into it, I don’t know, something,” to laughter from the audience. “I’m happy I came. He told me from day one, that Antioch is like a family. I said, ‘sure, sure, whatever.’ But it truly has been. To all the retired gentlemen, you guys took me in and never made me feel like an outsider and I greatly appreciate that. You don’t know how much that means.” Whitaker then concluded, “I’m excited for the opportunity. I’m humbled that the City entrusts this responsibility for me and I promise to work to the bone for at least two-point-two-six years until I’m 50 years old,” while pumping his fist and to more laughter from those in attendance. “Then, we’ll see after that.” (See video)

Jordan Morrow – Police Trainee

Bittner then introduced new Police Officer Jordan Morrow saying, “Jordan was born in Riverside and graduated from Rodriguez High School in 2010. After graduating High School, he attended Contra Costa Community College where he earned his Associate’s Degree in Liberal Arts. Shortly after, he attended Murray State University on a full ride football scholarship and graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications. While earning his Bachelor’s Degree, he was playing as the wide receiver and running back. On his free time, Jordan enjoys spending time with his two kids. He has a five-year-old son, and a one-year-old daughter. His kids are his motivation of becoming a Police Officer and he is looking forward to serving and helping the communities.

Fun fact: Jordan enjoys fishing and whale watching with his son.”

Morrow then had his son and father pin his badge to his uniform and then shared some remarks, offering his appreciation “to the City of Antioch for this opportunity. I know I have a long journey ahead of me and I just want to let everybody know I’m going to give it my all. I’m going to soak up all the knowledge that I’m going to get from my FTO’s and I’m going to try my absolute hardest to serve this community and to prove to my fellow officers and my superior officers that I deserve to be here and I’m going to earn…this badge and I’m going to do everything I can to just show them that I belong, here and I belong in this brotherhood.” (See video)

Nicholas Kegle – Police Trainee

Before introducing him, Bittner asked why he wasn’t a firefighter like his brother who was in attendance. Kegle responded, it was a trio, with his sister who was a nurse.

Captain Bittner then said, “Nicholas was born in Pleasanton and grew up in Oakley. He graduated from Freedom High School in 2016 and shortly after left for the Marine Corps. He was there from 2016 to 2020 and was stationed in Oahu with third battalion, third marines as a fire tech.

Fun Fact: Nicholas enjoys dirt biking and golfing.”

Kegle had his brother pin on his badge followed by brief remarks of appreciation for his new position. “I’m very grateful to be here. I look forward to my future, here with the department, learning as much as I can. I’m excited to see who my FTO’s in the future and see how they’re going to get me ready for the streets. Thank you for everyone coming out today to support me and us.” (See video)

Current Sworn Staffing at 85, Down from 90 in June

According to Lt. Mike Mellone, that brings the department’s sworn staffing to 85 out of 105 in the City’s budget. As of June 24, 2025, the department had 90 sworn officers. Asked about the reduction Mellone explained that they were due to “retirements and some folks didn’t complete training.”

15-year-old Antioch High student Tyrell Washington, 4 others shot

By Allen D. Payton

According to the San Francisco Police Department, “On July 5th, 2025, at approximately 12:07 a.m., San Francisco Police officers from Bayview Station responded to the 100 block of Harbor Road regarding a shooting. Officers arrived on the scene and located several victims who were suffering from apparent gunshot wounds.

Officers rendered aid and medics arrived on scene, who transported five victims – three minors and two adults – to the hospital, two with life-threatening injuries and three with non-life-threatening injuries. Despite the lifesaving efforts of the emergency responders and the medical staff, one of the victims succumbed to their injuries and was pronounced deceased.

When asked for the identity of the victim and additional details about the shooting, SFPD Public Information Officer Robert Rueca responded, “At this time we are not identifying the victim in this incident. We are not releasing further details regarding the incident due to the open and active investigation.”

A call and email sent to the San Francisco Chief Medical Examiner’s Office to identify the deceased were unsuccessful prior to publication time.

However, according to a July 9th KTVU FOX2 news report, the victim was 15-year-old Antioch resident Tyrell Washington who was in San Francisco visiting his relatives for the July 4th holiday. His birthday was this Friday, and he would have turned 16 years old.

“Relatives say the teen embraced his Christian faith and was baptized in April,” the KTVU report shared. “Family members described Tyrell as a good student at Antioch High School where he was set to start the 11th grade.”

The SFPD Homicide Detail responded to the scene and is leading the investigation.

In a post on the GoFundMe account set up by Latasha Johnson to help raise funds for Washington’s funeral expenses reads,” Help Us Honor the Life of Tyrell Devon Amir Washington

It is with heavy hearts that we share the devastating loss of our beloved Tyrell Devon Amir Washington, who was tragically murdered in Bayview-Hunters Point, San Francisco—just seven days before his 16th birthday.

Tyrell was not involved in gangs in any way. He was a bright, loving, and intelligent young man with his whole life ahead of him. He had just received his driver’s permit and a brand new car—something he was so excited about. Tyrell had already earned all of his high school credits and didn’t need to attend summer school. He was focused, motivated, and full of potential.

Born and raised in Antioch, California since the age of three, Tyrell grew up surrounded by family and community. He was known for his affectionate nature and deep love for those around him. If you knew Tyrell, you knew how much he loved to laugh, connect with others, and simply enjoy life. Tyrell brought people together he was loving, caring, and so kind to everyone who he became in contact with.

On July 4th, Tyrell came to San Francisco to celebrate with family and friends. He was just trying to enjoy the holiday, like any kid would. But his life was senselessly taken from us.

We are asking for your support during this heartbreaking time to help in anyway possible with a donation, no matter the size, means the world to our family.

Tyrell deserved so much more. He was loved, he was cherished, and he will never be forgotten.

Thank you for your prayers, support, and love.

Show your support for this GoFundMe.”

The effort had raised $1,930 of a $50,000 goal by early Wednesday afternoon, July 9.

Check back later for any updates to this report.

To celebrate signing of Declaration of Independence and nation’s 249th birthday

Parade winners announced, U.S. Senator makes appearance, SWAT’s presence explained

By Allen D. Payton

Hundreds of Antioch residents lined the streets of historic, downtown Rivertown on Independence Day, during the annual celebration Friday afternoon, to enjoy the July 4th Parade, Kids and Family Zone, food from local restaurants and  food trucks, live music by “Sade of the Bay”, the Ariel Marin Band, and The Purple Ones – Prince Tribute Band who ended their performance with a solid rendition of Purple Rain to the delight of the crowd in Waldie Plaza, as the fireworks show over the river began about 9:20 p.m.

During a break in the music, Mayor Ron Bernal thanked those who gathered for the celebration.

Thousands gathered on the Promenade and Uril E. “Compy” Compomizzo Fishing Pier along the Antioch waterfront to enjoy the show shot from the barge on the river. It floated too far east and had to be called to head back west just in time for the spectacular grand finale. (See video)

2025 Antioch Independence Day – July 4th Parade Winners

The three Antioch Independence Day – July 4th Parade Judges, Assistant City Manager Brad Helfenberger, former Antioch School Board Trustee Alonzo Terry, and Rivertown Treasure Chest co-owner and Downtown Antioch Association leader Debbie Blaisure, determined the following winners in each category:

MOST PATRIOTIC: DELTA VETERANS GROUP @deltaveteransgroup;

BEST PERFORMANCE: PARK MIDDLE SCHOOL CHEER TEAM @parkmiddleantioch; and

BEST VEHICLE: BRUSH PROS @brushprosca.

“Three very deserving winners!” Blaisure said. “The crew did a great job working together,” Terry added.

In a post on the Antioch Recreation Department’s Instagram page City staff wrote, “Thank you so much to every single one of our parade participants!”

Senator Schiff Shows Up, SWAT’s Presence Seen

During the parade, U.S. Senator Adam Schiff (D-CA) participated, waving to the crowd while walking with a group holding signs with his name on them.

Some people speculated he was the reason for the Antioch Police Department SWAT Team’s presence along the parade route and throughout the celebration. However, according to Lt. Mike Mellone, that wasn’t the case.

“We had planned for a tactical presence at the parade well before we were made aware of Senator Schiff’s attendance. This decision was based on the elevated threat environment tied to ongoing world events, as well as adherence to best practices for securing large-scale public gatherings,” he shared.

“There were no specific or credible threats made in advance of the event. Our department worked closely with regional and federal partners to monitor for any potential risks and ensure the safety of all attendees,” Mellone added.

See more videos on the Antioch Herald Facebook page here, here, here and the grand finale here.

By Antioch Police Department

Uh oh… we tried to warn you!

Antioch Police Officer Tryner was on the lookout for stolen cars, so when dispatch got calls about a sideshow spinning up, he rolled just in time to see a black Dodge Challenger doing donuts like it was auditioning for Fast & Furious: Antioch Drift.

The car didn’t make the cut. Its rear tires were blown, the driver was heavily intoxicated, and surprise the vehicle was stolen.

One is in custody, the stolen car recovered, and yep… we’re back at it again Sunday.

U.S. Marshals assist; Raymond Leon Greene, IV held on $1.75 million bail; also arrested for domestic violence in February

Woman shot May 20th

By Antioch Police Department

On Tuesday, June 3, 2025, Antioch Police detectives and officers working alongside the U.S. Marshals Service served a search warrant at an apartment complex in Antioch as part of an attempted homicide investigation from a recent shooting in the 3900 block of Delta Fair Blvd.

On Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at approximately 8:51 PM, Antioch police officers responded for a reported shooting. When officers arrived, they located a 31-year-old female victim suffering from at least one gunshot wound. Responding officers immediately provided first aid until relieved by paramedics. The victim was transported to an area hospital. (See related article)

30-year-old Raymond Leon Greene, IV (born 2/16/95) was arrested and taken into custody without incident. Investigators also recovered evidence from the residence.

The victim remains in critical condition at a local hospital.

According to localcrimenews.com, Green was also arrested by San Pablo Police on Feb. 18, 2025, for inflicting corporal injury on a spouse or cohabitant. Acting Lt. Whitaker confirmed that information and said the suspect is in custody.

According to the Contra Costa Sheriff’s Office, the five-feet, 11-inch tall, 205-pound Green is Black, being held in the Martinez Detention Facility on $1.75 million bond.

If you have any information regarding this case, please contact Det. Becerra at (925) 779-6937 or email abecerra@antiochca.gov.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Assault with a deadly weapon

By Lt. Matthew Koch #3018, Antioch Police Field Services Division

Officers with the Antioch Police Department are investigating a shooting that sent one person to the hospital. On May 22, 2025, at approximately 4:23 PM, Antioch police officers responded to the 2000 block of Crater Peak Way for a reported shooting. When officers arrived, they located a 21-year-old male victim suffering from at least one gunshot wound to the arm. Responding officers immediately provided first aid until relieved by paramedics. The victim was transported to an area hospital, where he is listed in stable condition.

At least one car was involved. But it was not clear at publication time if the shooting was a drive-by.

Officers are currently on scene canvassing the area. Based on the initial investigation, it appears to be an isolated incident. This is an active investigation, and no further information will be released. The identity of the victim is not being released at this time.

Please check back later for any updates to this report.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

UPDATE: Following traffic stop; head-on crash sends driver to hospital, leads to more crashes

Two from additional collisions also taken to hospital

By Allen D. Payton

In an early morning post on X on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, by Jimmy Lee, Contra Costa County Sheriff Director of Public Affairs, “Officer-involved protocol was invoked last night after a fatal vehicle collision. Deputy sheriffs terminated a pursuit on Highway 160 after the suspect crossed the divider and drove in the opposite direction. A short time after the pursuit was terminated and the deputies no longer had sight of the suspect vehicle, the collision occurred. DA’s Office and Sheriff’s Office are conducting the investigation.”

In a press release late Wednesday afternoon, Lee shared the following additional details:

A fatal traffic collision is being investigated by the Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office and the Contra Costa Sheriff’s Office per the county Law Enforcement Involved Fatal Incident Protocol.

On Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at about 9:19 PM, deputy sheriffs conducted a traffic enforcement stop in the area of Willow Avenue and E. 18th Street in Antioch. The vehicle did not yield leading the deputies on a pursuit. Once on southbound Highway 160, the suspect vehicle crossed over the center median and drove south in the northbound lanes. The deputies immediately terminated the pursuit and lost sight of the vehicle.

A short time after the pursuit was terminated, the California Highway Patrol received calls about a collision on the Highway 4 overpass onto Highway 160. It was later determined the suspect vehicle was involved in the collision. The suspect was later pronounced deceased at the scene. He is identified as 50-year-old Victor A. Vigil of Pittsburg. Three others were taken to local hospitals.

Anyone with any information on this incident is asked to contact the Investigation Division at (925) 313-2600. For any tips, email: tips@so.cccounty.us or call (866) 846-3592 to leave an anonymous voice message.

CHP Says Crash was Head-On, Led to More Crashes, Driver of Car Struck by Suspect, Two from Subsequent Collisions Taken to Hospital

UPDATE: Later, CHP – Contra Costa offered more details about the incident.

On Tuesday, April 22nd, 2025, at approximately 9:23 p.m., officers assigned to the California Highway Patrol’s (CHP) Contra Costa Area office responded to a four-vehicle, head-on crash that occurred on the transition ramp from eastbound SR-4 to northbound SR-160.

As officers responded to the crash, they were advised that the wrong-way vehicle had previously been involved in a pursuit with the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office; however, the pursuit had been discontinued prior to the crash.

Our preliminary investigation indicates a Lexus sedan was traveling southbound in the northbound lanes of SR-160 before continuing wrong-way onto the transition ramp from eastbound SR-4 to northbound SR-160. While traveling the wrong way on the transition ramp, the Lexus crashed head-on with a Mercedes SUV, resulting in major damage to both vehicles. This crash led to a series of crashes involving two additional vehicle: a solo occupied Honda Civic and a Dodge Caliber occupied by driver and passenger. Both occupants of the Dodge were transported to a local hospital for treatment of moderate injuries. The driver of the Mercedes sustained major injuries and was airlifted from the scene to a local hospital for medical treatment. The wrong-way driver sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The transition ramp from eastbound SR-4 to northbound SR-160 was closed following the crash and reopened at approximately 6:24 a.m. the next morning.

This crash remains under investigation. If anyone witnessed the incident or the events leading up to it, please contact the Contra Costa Area office in Martinez at (925) 646-4980 or email your contact information to 320Investigations@chp.ca.gov to be contacted by the investigating officer.

According to localcrimenews.com, Vigil had five previous arrests by Walnut Creek, Pittsburg and Vacaville Police and the Contra Costa Sheriff dating back to 2013 for drug crimes.