At approximately 12:50pm on Thursday, July 17, 2025, Parole Agent Joshua Byrd of the Oakland Division of Adult Parole Operations (DAPO) was shot inside a parole office at the corner of Edgewater Drive and Pardee Lane in East Oakland. He was immediately transported to a Highland Hospital where he later succumbed to his injuries. A suspect has been detained by the Oakland Police Department. The recently released parolee entered the state parole office in Oakland, where Byrd was on duty, and started shooting, striking Byrd before fleeing. 

“Our hearts are heavy as we remember Parole Agent Joshua Byrd, whose bravery and dedication led to his tragic death in the line of duty. We extend our deepest condolences to the law enforcement community, as well as to Agent Byrd’s family and friends,” said CDCR Secretary Jeff Macomber. “Those who violate the law will ultimately face consequences. We are grateful to the law enforcement agencies, for their role in apprehending a suspect.”

Agent Byrd, age 40, joined CDCR as a cadet at CDCR’s correctional officer academy in June 2014. After serving as a Correctional Officer (promoted to Correctional Sergeant in 2020) at the California Medical Facility, he joined DAPO’s Oakland office as a Parole Agent in October 2024.

Agent Byrd is survived by his wife and three children.