Governor Gavin Newsom and Acting Governor Eleni Kounalakis have issued a statement following the death of California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) Parole Agent Joshua Lemont Byrd.
“This is a heartbreaking loss. Agent Byrd served with integrity and courage — and we’re forever grateful. We are keeping his family in our prayers and we join the men and women of CDCR in mourning this tragedy,” said Governor Gavin Newsom.
On July 17, at approximately 12:50 p.m., Parole Agent Byrd was shot inside the Division of Adult Parole Operations (DAPO) office located in Oakland. He was transported to a local hospital for treatment but succumbed to his injuries. A suspect has been detained by Oakland Police Department officers.
Agent Byrd, aged 40, began his career with CDCR as a cadet at the correctional officer academy in June 2014. He later served as a correctional officer and correctional sergeant before joining the DAPO Oakland office as a parole agent in October 2024.
He is survived by his wife and children.
In honor of Agent Byrd, flags at the State Capitol and Capitol Annex Swing Space will be flown at half-staff. This marks the first line-of-duty loss for CDCR since 2018.
