BART Press Release Re: Jasmine Gao Shooting
12.13.24
Click on this link to watch the video.
BART releases body camera video of the November 18 officer-involved shooting at Union City Station, announces independent investigation BART is releasing video of the officer-involved shooting that took place on Monday, November 18, 2024, in the Union City Station parking lot at around 9pm. Two BART Police officers stopped a vehicle driven by 32-year-old Jasmine Gao after receiving a report of reckless driving. Before contacting Ms. Gao, officers learned the vehicle’s registration was expired.
During the stop, Ms. Gao displayed erratic behavior. When the officers asked her multiple times to exit her vehicle she did not comply. While an officer was reaching inside the car, Ms. Gao rolled up the window and accelerated forward. An officer fired three shots, striking Ms. Gao in the upper torso. Ms. Gao received immediate first aid and was transported to a nearby hospital, where she was treated and later discharged.
The case has been referred to the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office.
The officer who discharged his weapon is Nicholas Poblete. He has 6.5 years of service for BART Police and is assigned to the Operations Bureau. He has been placed on administrative leave.
BART’s Chief of Police Kevin Franklin made the following statement about the video and the investigation:
“BART is releasing the full, unedited body camera video from both responding officers, with only statutorily mandated redactions to provide full transparency and accountability in this unfortunate incident. I want to assure the public that all aspects of this incident will be thoroughly investigated. Due to the seriousness of this incident, we have retained an experienced third-party investigator to conduct the internal administrative investigation to ensure an unbiased and objective review. BART remains committed to continuous improvement and ensuring the actions of our police officers meet the highest of standards.”
BART’s Civilian Oversight Model
BART’s Civilian Oversight Model, adopted by the BART Board of Directors, offers additional layers of independent oversight of the BART Police Department. The Office of the Independent Police Auditor (OIPA) may accept and investigate any complaint of misconduct and may monitor and review investigations.