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Oakley Today
By the People, for the People
Oakley Man Accused of Attempted Murder of Sheriff's Deputy
Raymond E. Smith transferred to jail after month-long hospital stay for self-inflicted gunshot wound
Published on Mar. 1, 2026
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Raymond E. Smith, a 54-year-old Oakley resident, has been charged with attempted murder of a Contra Costa County Sheriff's deputy after an incident on January 12 where he allegedly shot at a deputy and then barricaded himself in his home, sustaining a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Smith has been transferred from the hospital to the West County Detention Facility, where he is being held on $1.3 million bond for the attempted murder charge as well as several other pending cases.
Why it matters
This case highlights the dangers law enforcement officers face in responding to domestic violence calls, as well as the challenges of dealing with suspects who have a history of criminal behavior and mental health issues. It also raises questions about bail reform and whether repeat offenders should be released on bond, especially when they are accused of violent crimes against police.
The details
On January 12, deputies were dispatched to a call regarding a violation of a restraining order involving Smith. When a deputy attempted to conduct a traffic stop near Gold Run Drive in Oakley, Smith allegedly shot at the deputy, who was not struck. Smith then fled to his home on Placer Drive, where a SWAT team found him with a self-inflicted gunshot wound after hearing one gunshot. Smith was hospitalized for a month before being transferred to the West County Detention Facility on February 18.
- On January 12, deputies were dispatched to a call regarding a violation of a restraining order involving Smith.
- On January 12, Smith allegedly shot at a deputy who attempted to conduct a traffic stop near Gold Run Drive in Oakley.
- On January 12, a SWAT team found Smith with a self-inflicted gunshot wound after hearing one gunshot at his home on Placer Drive.
- Smith was hospitalized for a month before being transferred to the West County Detention Facility on February 18.
The players
Raymond E. Smith
A 54-year-old Oakley resident who has been charged with attempted murder of a Contra Costa County Sheriff's deputy, as well as several other pending cases.
Contra Costa County Sheriff's Office
The law enforcement agency that responded to the incident involving Raymond E. Smith and is investigating the attempted murder of one of their deputies.
What they’re saying
“We must hold those who commit violent acts against law enforcement accountable, while also addressing the underlying mental health and criminal history issues that may have contributed to this incident.”
— Contra Costa County Sheriff
What’s next
The judge will determine whether to grant bail for Raymond E. Smith at his upcoming court hearing.
The takeaway
This case highlights the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in responding to domestic violence calls and dealing with suspects who have a history of criminal behavior and mental health issues. It also raises important questions about bail reform and public safety that the local community will likely continue to grapple with.
