Gunman Pursues Victim in Fisherman’s Wharf Homicide

ABC7 San Francisco

Incident Overview

San Francisco was shaken by a shocking incident on Wednesday afternoon, May 15, 2025, when an armed gunman was caught on video chasing a victim through the iconic Fisherman’s Wharf area. The tragic event unfolded shortly after 1 p.m. at the intersection of North Point and Columbus Avenue, leaving one man dead and another in police custody.

Witnesses reported hearing several gunshots, with immediate reactions from those nearby emphasizing the shocking nature of the violence. Ariel Hamill, a nearby resident, shared her experience: “My mother-in-law was with my baby on the couch, and I heard a bang. Then bang, bang, bang, and I thought, those are gunshots.”

Details of the Incident

As per eyewitness accounts, the gunman pursued his target in a vehicle. The high-stakes chase involved the suspect aiming a substantial firearm at the fleeing SUV. The surveillance footage has been slowed down to better illustrate the urgency of the chase, showing the assailant determinedly following the vehicle through the bustling area.

Another local resident, Mari Green, was awoken from sleep by the commotion surrounding the incident. She noted the disturbance was alarming, adding to the already tense atmosphere at Fisherman’s Wharf, a popular tourist attraction in San Francisco.

Police arrived promptly at the scene, recovering multiple shell casings near North Point and Columbus Avenue, a region that borders the North Beach and Russian Hill neighborhoods. The victim, who sustained severe injuries during the ordeal, attempted to drive a few blocks away, only to succumb to his injuries near a local In-N-Out Burger.

Responses from Authorities

San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie addressed the media regarding the shooting, expressing his gratitude towards the swift action taken by the San Francisco Police Department (SFPD). “We won’t tolerate any violence of that sort,” he stated, recognizing the dedication of the SFPD in capturing the suspect who later turned himself in at a nearby police station.

Lurie emphasized that while such violent incidents can occur in major cities, it is essential for communities to respond without fearing normalization of violence. He expressed pride in how quickly law enforcement responded to this incident, ensuring the safety of the community at large.

Community Impact

This incident at Fisherman’s Wharf has reignited discussions about public safety in San Francisco, especially in areas known for their heavy foot traffic and tourism. As locals and visitors alike continue to grapple with the implications of such violence, the city aims to reinforce its commitment to law enforcement and safety in response to the rising concerns of crime.

Furthermore, this shooting is a tragic reminder of the escalating tensions surrounding public safety, further stressing the need for community engagement and proactive measures to foster a secure environment for everyone.

For more information on crime and safety in the area, residents are encouraged to check the ABC7 Neighborhood Safety Tracker.

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San Francisco, Fisherman’s Wharf, homicide, gun violence, SFPD, crime, public safety, local news, shooting, eyewitness accounts