OROVILLE, Calif. – Asaahdi Coleman, a man convicted of second-degree murder for a shooting on a Greyhound bus in Oroville in 2022, faces the possibility of spending up to 74 years to life in prison. On Thursday, a jury found Coleman guilty of second-degree murder and attempted murder with gun enhancements, according to a statement by Butte County District Attorney Mike Ramsey. Coleman, a 23-year-old from Sacramento and alleged Sacramento gang member, was also acquitted of three counts of attempted murder. The shooting incident on Feb. 2, 2022, resulted in the death of 43-year-old Karin Dolton, as well as injuries to an 11-year-old girl, a 25-year-old pregnant woman, a 32-year-old man, and a 38-year-old man.
Throughout the trial, Coleman’s defense attorney argued that Coleman’s unspecified mental illness impaired his capacity to form an intent to kill, suggesting that he was indiscriminately firing at individuals without intent to cause harm. Despite this defense, Coleman could potentially seek parole after 25 years due to California’s 2019 Youthful Offender Parole law. Judge Corie Carraway is scheduled to sentence Coleman on May 31.
The shooting incident sent shockwaves through the Oroville community and beyond, prompting discussions about gun violence, mental health, and the criminal justice system. The tragic loss of life and numerous injuries served as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of such acts of violence. The jury’s decision to convict Coleman reflected the gravity of the situation and the need for accountability in cases of senseless violence.
As the community grapples with the aftermath of the shooting, support services and resources have been mobilized to assist those affected by the tragedy. Efforts to address the root causes of violence and prevent similar incidents in the future are underway, highlighting the importance of proactive measures in ensuring public safety and well-being. The impact of the shooting reverberates throughout the region, underscoring the need for continued vigilance and collaboration in promoting a safe and secure environment for all residents.