The security guard who was shot in an attempted armed robbery of a news crew in downtown Oakland Wednesday has died, police said Saturday morning.

The death, that happened Saturday morning, is now being investigated by the Oakland Police Department’s homicide section, and investigators are asking anyone with information to contact the homicide section at (510) 238-3821 or call Crime Stoppers at (510) 777-8572.  Callers can remain anonymous. 

The death marks the City of Oakland’s 126th life lost to violence, police said.

The attempted robbery and shooting occurred at 12:19 p.m. Wednesday in the 300 block of 14th Street, according to police. The guard, identified as Kevin Nishita, was employed by Star Protection Agency California and working with a KRON4 reporter at the time of the shooting.

“It is with great sadness that we announce the death of our employee Kevin Nishita … He gained the respect and admiration of his peers and the communities in which he served,” said the agency in a statement.

Crime Stoppers of Oakland, and the Oakland Police Department, are offering a reward of up to $7,500 leading to the arrest of the individual or individuals involved in this crime. KRON4 and its parent company Nexstar Media Inc. as well as Star Protection Agency are also contributing to the reward, upping the total to $32,500.

The Oakland Police Department released a photo of a car believed to have been used in the shooting Wednesday. The vehicle is a white 2004 to 2008 Acura TL with a sunroof and no front license plate, police said.

Nishita worked for several Bay Area departments. He spent more than a decade with the San Jose Police Department where he was described as “a fighter” even in retirement.

A statement from SJPD said in part, “His contagious smile, passion to serve others, and an unmatched work ethic embodied the best of all of us.”

He also worked in Hayward and Colma, where on his last day on the force in 2018, he was given the Chief’s Award for his character, performance and help to the community. 

“Specifically, here in Oakland I want to send my condolences to everyone who has lost someone to these senseless acts of violence,” said community activist and business owner Derreck Johnson.

The focus now for Johnson as well as local law makers like councilmember Loren Taylor  — is working to reach those most at risk of getting into a life of crime before they do, and addressing the needs of the community to deter crime.

“It’s just a blow to not just the sense of security but the efforts we have underway for Oaklanders and those who visit the town,” said Taylor.

“It’s about getting in the community knocking on doors, talking to the individuals, the families and law enforcement can’t do it on their own this is a bigger issue and it will take collaboration,” said Johnson.