Image Source: KTVU
Ulysses Bear Davis, a 47-year-old San Francisco security guard, was fatally shot outside the Warfield Theatre, and police have arrested a woman in connection with the killing. The case has drawn renewed attention to security concerns surrounding large entertainment events in the city.
Shocking Arrest in the Ulysses Bear Davis Case
San Francisco police arrested Shakia Vanderbilt, 32, on suspicion of murder, according to information released by authorities. Vanderbilt was arrested Tuesday in connection with Davis’ death. Police have not publicly detailed the circumstances that led to the shooting or explained what may have happened before the confrontation.
The shooting occurred near Market and Taylor streets after an event connected to the reality television show Baddies ended around midnight Saturday. Davis was working security at the Warfield Theatre when the incident took place at approximately 1 a.m.
What Happened Outside the Warfield Theatre?
According to Terrance Cooper, Davis’ brother-in-law, Davis was helping escort a “rowdy” woman from the theater when she allegedly shot him in the back. Cooper said Davis’ wife and two of his six children witnessed the shooting.
The account provided by Davis’ family describes a sudden and devastating encounter as the security guard performed his job outside the venue. Authorities have not confirmed every detail of the family’s account, and the investigation remains active.
- Ulysses Davis was 47 years old.
- He worked as a security guard at the Warfield Theatre.
- The shooting happened after a Saturday night event.
- Shakia Vanderbilt, 32, was arrested on suspicion of murder.
- Police are reviewing whether the event had the required permits.
Family Remembers Davis as “Bear”
Davis was widely known by friends and relatives as “Bear.” His family said he grew up in San Francisco’s Bayview-Hunters Point neighborhood and was known for supporting people around him.
“Bear would give you the shirt off his back,” Cooper told KTVU. “If you ever called him and you needed him, he was always there.”
That description has shaped the family’s public response to the tragedy. Loved ones portrayed Davis as generous, dependable and willing to step in when others needed help. His death has left his wife, children and wider community grieving.
The circumstances are especially painful for the family because Davis’ wife and two children were reportedly present when he was shot. Relatives are now seeking answers as police work to establish a complete timeline and determine what led to the fatal confrontation.
Police Investigate Event Permits and Safety
In addition to the homicide investigation, San Francisco police are examining whether the event had the proper permits. Police spokesman Robert Rueca said investigators are reviewing whether the business was authorized to host the event and whether it operated within any permit restrictions.
“We understand that there was an event that was occurring,” Rueca said. “Part of our investigation is to make sure that business was allowed to hold that event, if they do have the proper permits and were operating it according to the permit restrictions.”
The permit review could add another layer to the case as investigators examine security procedures, event operations and what happened inside and outside the theater. The Warfield and Lemmuel Plummer, CEO of Zeus Network, which produces Baddies, had not responded to KTVU’s requests for comment at the time of the report.
What Happens Next in the Investigation?
Vanderbilt’s arrest is an important development, but an arrest is not a conviction. Prosecutors will determine how to proceed as police continue gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses. Officials have not released additional details about possible charges, court proceedings or a motive.
The investigation was discussed during an Oct. 7, 2026, news conference involving San Francisco District Attorney Brooke Jenkins and local police. The report also relied on jail records and previous interviews with Davis’ family, as reported by KTVU.
For Davis’ loved ones, the focus remains on remembering the man behind the “Bear” nickname: a father, husband, family member and security professional whose life ended while he was helping manage a difficult situation. The case is expected to develop as authorities review evidence and assess the event’s compliance with city requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Ulysses Bear Davis?
Ulysses “Bear” Davis was a 47-year-old San Francisco security guard who worked at the Warfield Theatre. His family said he grew up in the Bayview-Hunters Point neighborhood.
What happened to Ulysses Bear Davis?
Davis was fatally shot outside the Warfield Theatre near Market and Taylor streets after a Saturday night event. His family said he was escorting a woman from the venue when he was allegedly shot in the back.
Who was arrested in the case?
San Francisco police arrested Shakia Vanderbilt, 32, on suspicion of murder in connection with Davis’ death.
Were permits part of the investigation?
Yes. Police are investigating whether the event had the necessary permits and whether the venue operated according to any permit restrictions.
