Family and Friends to Honor Dr. Marvin Boomer, Jr. in California Assembly Ceremony

Honoring Dr. Marvin Boomer, Jr.

On June 9, 2025, a poignant ceremony took place in the California State Assembly to honor the life and achievements of Dr. Marvin Boomer, Jr. His family, accompanied by his long-time partner, Nina Woodruff, gathered for the Adjourning in Memory event, an occasion marking not only a tribute to Dr. Boomer but also a call for change in police pursuit policies that led to his tragic death.

Dr. Boomer, a cherished member of the Oakland educational community, lost his life on May 28 during a high-speed police pursuit that ended in fatal tragedy on East 21st Street. This heart-wrenching incident has prompted the Boomer family to not only mourn but also advocate for systemic reforms aimed at preventing such avoidable incidents in the future.

In her heartfelt remarks, Nina Woodruff reflected on the memory of her partner, affectionately describing him as “Mr. Wonderful.” She expressed deep gratitude for the recognition Dr. Boomer received at the state level, noting the significance of such formal acknowledgment in the context of their immense loss. However, Woodruff did not shy away from the harsh reality surrounding Dr. Boomer's untimely death. “Marvin should still be with us. His death was preventable — and that haunts us every day,” she stated, emphasizing the necessity for change.

The ceremony, sponsored by Assemblymember Mia Bonta, served as an official legislative recognition of Dr. Boomer's contributions and the profound impact he had on his community. His family, while honoring his legacy, is also spearheading a movement for significant changes in California's police pursuit policies. They call for immediate reconsideration of these policies, especially in residential areas, emphasizing the inherent risks involved in high-speed pursuits.

“My brother's death is a stark reminder of the urgent need for reform,” shared Tynesha Boomer, Dr. Boomer's sister. She articulated her family’s firm belief in the importance of public safety, voicing support for local law enforcement while simultaneously advocating for guidelines that prioritize human life over reckless speed. “We need policies that protect lives — not endanger them,” she concluded, underscoring the desperate need for a more thoughtful approach to policing.

The Adjourning in Memory ceremony was not merely a somber remembrance but a potential catalyst for change. The Boomer family hopes that this moment of reflection can inspire necessary transformations in pursuit policy, city planning, and broader public safety measures. Nina Woodruff expressed her aspiration for Dr. Boomer's legacy to move beyond sorrow, hoping it becomes one of justice, safety, and progressive change.

“Let Marvin's memory be our guide as we seek to make our communities safer for everyone,” she urged, highlighting the need for collective action and accountability in shaping better policies for the future.