Oakland Teacher Killed in Crash: Teen Driver Claims 'Panic' During Police Chase

Oakland Mourns Beloved Teacher After Fatal Crash; 18-Year-Old Suspect Claims Panic During Police Chase Oakland, CA – The Bay Area is mourning the loss of Marvin Boomer, a popular teacher at Arise High School, who tragically died in a car accident last Wednesday evening. An 18-year-old, Eric Hernandez Garcia, is facing charges in connection with the incident. Garcia's attorney stated that his client "panicked" when police pursued his car, leading to the crash that killed Boomer and injured his girlfriend. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) initiated the pursuit on 192nd Avenue and International Boulevard because Garcia's car was wanted in connection with an earlier incident involving Alameda deputies. The ground chase was temporarily called off, but resumed after Garcia stopped near Lake Merritt. The chase ended shortly after when Garcia crashed into a minivan on a residential street. "He panicked," stated Garcia's attorney in court on Monday, where Garcia postponed entering a plea until June 20th. The attorney's claim is supported by doorbell camera footage showing Garcia fleeing the accident scene on foot. Arise High School released a statement expressing their heartbreak and requesting privacy. The impact of this tragedy is felt deeply within the Oakland community. The loss of Mr. Boomer, described by his sister as "loving, kind, and full of life," is a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the devastating consequences of reckless actions.