In a dramatic fall from grace, former Bay Area television icon Frank Somerville has been apprehended by Oakland police on serious battery charges. The incident, which unfolded at a local restaurant, marks another troubling chapter for the ex-news anchor whose career has been marred by recent controversies.
According to law enforcement officials, the altercation occurred late Tuesday evening at an establishment in the 400 block of Embarcadero. Police were summoned to the scene following reports of a physical assault, leading to Somerville's subsequent arrest and booking at the Santa Rita Jail.
A Pattern of Troubling Behaviour
This latest incident adds to Somerville's growing list of legal and professional difficulties. The 67-year-old journalist, once the trusted face of KTVU's evening news, was initially suspended and subsequently departed from the station following a controversial on-air incident involving the death of Gabby Petito.
His professional unraveling continued with a previous arrest in 2022 for suspected driving under the influence, further tarnishing his reputation in the competitive Bay Area media landscape.
Community Reaction and Legal Proceedings
Local residents and former colleagues have expressed shock at the latest developments. Many remember Somerville as a polished professional who delivered news to Bay Area households for over three decades before his sudden fall from prominence.
Legal experts suggest the battery charges could carry significant consequences depending on the severity of the alleged assault and Somerville's previous encounters with law enforcement.
The former anchor remains in custody awaiting arraignment, with the Alameda County District Attorney's office reviewing the case for formal charges. The restaurant where the incident occurred has declined to comment, citing the ongoing police investigation.
