Security guard killed at San Francisco theater during 'Baddies' tour
San Francisco police arrested Shakia Vanderbilt, 32, for the fatal shooting of security guard Ulysses Davis at the Warfield Theatre. Davis, 47, was killed outside the venue after a dispute following a 'Baddies USA' event. Prosecutors charged Vanderbilt with murder and firearm offenses, noting she may have brought a weapon inside the theater despite screening.
Key points
- Ulysses Davis, 47, was shot and killed outside the Warfield Theatre on Market Street around 1 a.m. on Saturday.
- Shakia Vanderbilt, 32, was arrested Tuesday and charged with murder, intentionally discharging a firearm in an occupied building, and being a felon in possession.
- Davis’s wife and two of his six children witnessed the shooting; he was working security for the 'Baddies USA: Chapter Three' tour.
- Police Chief Derrick Lew stated Vanderbilt was escorted outside after a disruption, leading to a dispute and the shooting.
- District Attorney Brooke Jenkins said Vanderbilt may have brought a gun inside the venue despite screening processes.
- Vanderbilt has prior convictions for burglary, grand theft, conspiracy, and evading an officer, and was allegedly involved with the Rainbow Crew.
Background
This incident follows a pattern of fatal shootings involving security personnel in public venues. In August 2026, a security guard was fatally shot in Gary, Indiana, after an armed guard exhibited erratic behavior, leading to a police investigation and nine officers placed on leave. In October 2026, an unarmed security guard was fatally shot at Crystal Pier in Pacific Beach, San Diego, with authorities investigating the motive and suspect. These cases highlight ongoing concerns about security protocols and violence at public events.
How outlets are covering it
The San Francisco Standard emphasizes the legal charges against Vanderbilt and the potential failure of venue security screening, quoting District Attorney Brooke Jenkins on holding accountable those who think gun violence is acceptable. KTVU focuses on the personal impact on Davis’s family, noting his wife and children witnessed the shooting, and highlights police investigations into event permits. Both outlets agree on the basic facts but differ in emphasis: the Standard stresses accountability and gun control, while KTVU centers on the human cost and permit compliance.
Why it matters
The shooting raises questions about security protocols at public venues and the enforcement of firearm restrictions. It also contributes to San Francisco’s rising homicide count, prompting calls for increased resources to prevent gun violence. The incident may lead to scrutiny of event permitting and venue safety measures.
What to watch
Vanderbilt is scheduled to be arraigned Thursday afternoon, with prosecutors seeking to have her held without bail. Police will continue investigating the circumstances of the shooting and the event’s permit compliance. The Warfield and Zeus Network may issue statements as the investigation progresses.
- Woman accused of fatally shooting security guard at ‘Baddies’ event The San Francisco Standard
- Man shot dead at SF's Warfield Theatre was security guard KTVU
- Woman arrested in fatal shooting near SF’s Warfield Theatre KRON4
- SF: Update: Murder Charges Filed Against Woman Accused In Fatal Market St. Shooting SFGATE
- Woman charged in fatal S.F. Warfield shooting linked to notorious Rainbow Crew theft ring San Francisco Chronicle
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