In a dramatic turn of events Thursday night, a driver used a U-Haul truck in an apparent attempt to ram through the gates of Coast Guard Base Alameda, a critical facility in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Law enforcement officers responded decisively, opening fire and wounding the suspect after multiple verbal warnings were ignored.

The incident, which authorities say appears isolated, has quickly reignited debate over public safety and the role of federal agencies in America’s cities.

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According to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the driver deliberately “attempted to weaponize the vehicle to ram into Coast Guard Base Alameda.”

The threat was so immediate that, as the statement notes, “when the vehicle’s actions posed a direct threat to the safety of Coast Guard and security personnel, law enforcement officers discharged several rounds of defensive live fire.”

The suspect, wounded in the stomach, was taken into custody for a mental health evaluation and is expected to survive. Fortunately, no Coast Guard personnel were injured during the incident. A bystander, struck by a fragment, was treated at a local hospital and released shortly thereafter.

FBI spokesperson Cameron Polan stated, “At this time, the incident appears to be isolated, and there is no known current threat to the public.” This assurance is vital because, in an age of heightened security concerns, any attack on a federal base rightfully raises alarm.

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Video from the scene captured the tense moments as the U-Haul truck accelerated backwards, crashing into the base’s perimeter.

U-Haul’s spokesperson, Jeff Lockridge, emphasized the company’s cooperation with authorities: “U-Haul is assisting law enforcement to meet any investigative needs they have.” The FBI is currently leading the investigation, seeking clarity on the motives behind the failed attack.

This shocking event unfolded against the backdrop of significant political and social tension in the Bay Area. Earlier that same day, protesters gathered outside the base, holding signs that read “Protect our neighbors” and “No ICE or troops in the Bay.”

Many sang hymns, expressing strong opposition to any ramp-up of federal immigration enforcement, including the presence of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the National Guard.

These protests were sparked by the arrival of U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents at the base for what was described as a possible increase in immigration enforcement operations.

Hours prior to the incident, President Donald Trump—known for his firm stance on law and order—had called off a planned surge of federal agents into San Francisco.

Trump’s decision came after conversations with San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie and business leaders who insisted they were making progress in cleaning up the city.

This marked a clear contrast with earlier moments in his administration when he sent federal resources into other Democrat-led cities despite resistance from local officials.

The deployment of National Guard troops on American streets continues to be a contentious issue, facing ongoing legal battles in Washington, West Virginia, and Oregon.

Many Americans, however, have voiced support for the federal government’s efforts to restore order and reinforce the safety of law-abiding citizens.

As federal officials like Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth have emphasized, maintaining security at vital installations like Coast Guard Base Alameda is a national priority.

Their leadership underscores the importance of decisive action in moments of crisis, putting public safety above all else.

Coast Guard Island itself is a secure, 67-acre artificial island situated in the Oakland Estuary. Federally owned and strictly off-limits to the general public without proper government credentials, it has been the home of Base Alameda since 2012.

This facility serves as a crucial support hub for Coast Guard operations along the West Coast, underscoring the seriousness of any security breach at its gates.

As the dust settles, many are left reflecting on the day’s events. On one hand, the swift and coordinated response by law enforcement ensured the safety of everyone inside the base, demonstrating the value of clear-headed leadership and robust security measures.

On the other, the presence of protests and the incident itself highlight ongoing disagreements over the best way to secure our communities while respecting civil liberties.

In the end, this incident serves as a reminder that, while the nation may be divided on many issues, the commitment to safeguarding American lives and critical infrastructure must remain a bipartisan priority.

The response from federal officers and leadership alike sends a clear message: when threats arise, America stands ready to defend itself, thanks to the brave men and women who serve and the leaders who back them.

WATCH BELOW:

#BREAKING: Video from KPIX photojournalist Rick Villaroman shows a U-Haul driver backing up toward a line of officers outside US Coast Guard base Alameda before officers opened fire. This was hours after almost all protesters dispersed. Awaiting an update from police @KPIXtv pic.twitter.com/UPrc3CDT3l

— Sara Donchey (@SaraDonchey) October 24, 2025

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