The Hilton hotel near Oakland, California, has permanently closed its doors after 56 years, marking the end of an era for the long-standing establishment, FOX News reports.
The hotel, located near Oakland International Airport, officially shut down on August 28, with the last customer checked out that day. Over 150 employees lost their jobs, a move that has left many former workers, like Egigu Lemma, deeply saddened. Lemma, who worked at the Hilton for more than 35 years, shared that the closure was heartbreaking for staff who had hoped to retire from the hotel.
While Hilton did not officially state a reason for the closure, many former employees believe the decision was influenced by ongoing crime issues in the area. The Oakland neighborhood surrounding the hotel has been struggling with rising crime rates, including vehicle break-ins, thefts, and armed robberies, which have affected local businesses. Lemma recalled that after the pandemic, crime in the area surged, with the hotel facing incidents like ATM theft and vehicle damage.
The closure of the Hilton is part of a broader trend in the area, with several businesses shutting down due to safety concerns. Earlier this year, Oakland’s only In-N-Out Burger closed, citing regular car break-ins and robberies. A neighboring Denny’s, two Starbucks locations, and a local diner have also closed their doors, citing similar concerns.
Oakland has seen a sharp rise in violent crime, with a 21% increase in 2023, according to the Oakland Police Department. The surge in crime has prompted companies like Blue Shield and Clorox to provide security for their employees in the city. Many residents have also left Oakland due to concerns over safety, with some tragic incidents, like the shooting of 60-year-old retiree Dave Schneider, further highlighting the dangers.
Despite the closure, Lemma has found a new job, though he admits that his heart remains at the Hilton.
“When you think about all those memories, it’s very sad. After 56 years, it’s very sad,” he said.
Many of his colleagues, however, have struggled to find new employment since the hotel’s closure.
