Oakland Pastor Files $5M Claim After Alleged Federal Shooting

Rev. Jorge Bautista says a federal agent struck him with a projectile during an October protest at the entrance to Coast Guard Island.

Jan. 31, 2026 at 1:55pm

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Rev. Jorge Bautista has filed a federal tort claim seeking $5 million in damages after he says a federal agent struck him with a projectile during an October protest at the entrance to Coast Guard Island. Bautista's legal team has submitted a Standard Form 95 and attached documents, including a photograph they say shows an agent aiming at Bautista's head just after the impact. The claim kicks off a formal pre-litigation process that could end in a settlement or a lawsuit.

Why it matters

This case highlights ongoing tensions between federal law enforcement and local communities, particularly around the use of force at protests. It also raises questions about transparency and accountability for federal agents' actions, as well as the ability of citizens to seek redress through the legal system.

The details

According to the claim, the confrontation unfolded on Oct. 23 when demonstrators gathered at the Dennison Street entrance to Coast Guard Island and federal agents drove into the crowd, deploying flash-bang devices and firing chemical impact rounds. The filing includes a photograph they say captures a federal agent pointing a weapon at Bautista's head just after he was struck in the chin by a pepper round.

  • The incident occurred on October 23, 2025 during a protest at the entrance to Coast Guard Island.
  • Bautista's legal team filed the Standard Form 95 claim on January 31, 2026.

The players

Rev. Jorge Bautista

An Oakland pastor who was allegedly struck in the face by a federal agent's projectile during an October 2025 protest.

Emily Rose Johns

The attorney representing Rev. Bautista in the $5 million federal tort claim.

Department of Homeland Security

The federal agency whose agents were involved in the October 2025 incident at Coast Guard Island.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.