The iconic Hilton hotel near the Oakland, California, airport has shut its doors after over half a century in business, with former employees citing ongoing crime in the area as a contributing factor.
The Hilton Oakland Airport hotel has closed its doors after 56 years in operation, leaving over 150 employees without jobs. Former workers believe the closure is a direct result of the escalating crime in the area, which has also led to the closure of other businesses and prompted residents to leave their homes.
"We thought we were all going to retire there, but we were heartbroken," said Egigu Lemma, known as "Gigi" to his colleagues, who dedicated over 35 years as a bellman and guest service agent at the hotel.
Oakland Hilton Closes after 56 Years Amidst Rising Crime
Despite the closure, Hilton officials have not provided a specific reason for their decision. However, Lemma and other former employees are convinced that crime played a significant role.
"Businesses slowed down after COVID," explained Lemma, "but we were OK, at least the hotel was up in business. But after COVID, the crime was high, vehicles were broken into, catalytic converters were taken, and they stole the ATM from the hotel."
Oakland Hilton Closes after 56 Years Amidst Rising Crime
The once-thriving hotel had stood for over five decades on 20 acres, boasting 360 guest rooms and 15,000 square feet of event space. Lemma fondly recalled the hotel's unique charm, including a resident cat named Parris Hilton who greeted guests for the past 16 years.
However, the surrounding area has faced a surge in violent crime, with a 21% increase in 2023 compared to the previous year. This has prompted companies like Blue Shield and Clorox to hire security guards for their employees.
Oakland Hilton Closes after 56 Years Amidst Rising Crime
Other businesses in the area have also closed due to safety concerns, including the only In-N-Out Burger restaurant in Oakland and a neighboring Denny's. Two Starbucks locations and a local diner have also shut down.
Oakland police have reported a significant increase in homicides, aggravated assaults, and robberies. The rising crime rate has even led some residents to abandon their homes in fear.
Oakland Hilton Closes after 56 Years Amidst Rising Crime
Despite the challenges, Lemma was fortunate enough to find a new job after the Hilton closure. "I'm one of the luckiest ones," he said, "but most of them didn't get a job. I found a job, but my mind is still at the Hilton."
As he drives to work each morning, Lemma often makes the wrong turn, his mind still drawn to the familiar surroundings of the Hilton Oakland Airport hotel.
"When you think about all those memories, it's very sad," said Lemma. "After 56 years, it's very sad."
California Gov. Gavin Newsom, the Oakland Police Department, and Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao have not responded to requests for comment on the hotel closure. The city continues to grapple with the ongoing crime issue that has impacted both businesses and residents alike.
