Oakland Coffee Shop Owner Missing After Dealing With Grief

New details emerge about Amy Hillyard's disappearance as state lawmakers consider PG&E bill to lower resident bills

Apr. 11, 2026 at 3:03am by

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An extreme close-up photograph of a set of keys and a smartphone lying on a wooden table, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conceptually illustrating the mystery surrounding a local business owner's disappearance.The personal effects of a missing local business owner raise questions about the circumstances surrounding her disappearance.San Francisco Today

Amy Hillyard, the owner of a local coffee shop in Oakland, went missing on March 25 after leaving her home without her phone, keys, or important medication. Hillyard was reportedly dealing with grief over the deaths of a close friend and one of the family dogs, in addition to the stress of being a caregiver for family members. Meanwhile, a new state bill could lower PG&E bills for California residents by 30% while ensuring wildfire survivors receive full settlements.

Why it matters

The disappearance of a local business owner has raised concerns in the Oakland community, especially as Hillyard was reportedly dealing with personal challenges that may have contributed to her going missing. Additionally, the proposed PG&E bill could provide much-needed relief for residents struggling with high utility costs.

The details

According to reports, Hillyard left her home with the front door wide open and without her phone, keys, or important medication. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding her disappearance, which appears to be related to the grief and stress she was experiencing.

  • Amy Hillyard went missing on March 25, 2026.
  • The proposed PG&E bill is currently up for a vote with California lawmakers.

The players

Amy Hillyard

The owner of a local coffee shop in Oakland who went missing on March 25, 2026.

California Lawmakers

State legislators who are considering a bill that could lower PG&E bills for residents by 30% and ensure wildfire survivors receive full settlements.

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What’s next

Authorities are continuing to investigate Hillyard's disappearance and are appealing to the public for any information that could help locate her. The proposed PG&E bill will be voted on by state lawmakers in the coming weeks.

The takeaway

The disappearance of a local business owner has raised concerns in the Oakland community, highlighting the need for support and resources for those dealing with personal challenges. Meanwhile, the potential PG&E bill could provide much-needed relief for residents struggling with high utility costs, demonstrating the ongoing efforts to address issues affecting local communities.