Filipino-American co-owner of a restaurant was shot infront of his 11 year-old son

By Edward Era Barbacena

The Oakland foodie community was filled with unexpected grief on Wednesday night after Artgel “Jun” Anabo, the co-owner of a cherished Filipino restaurant, was shot and killed in front of his 11-year-old son. Anabo’s restaurant, Lucky Three Seven, is known for its role in the community, as employees pass out not only the famed chicken wings, but also free meals and school supplies. Locals organized a memorial outside of the restaurant in honor of 39-year-old Anabo, whom law enforcement believe may have been shot over a dispute with a truck—unbeknownst to Anabo, the vehicle was stolen, and he asked for a refund after it was taken by highway authorities. Representatives of Lucky Three Seven posted a statement on Instagram, writing, “We find ourselves lost without Anabo” and are “all kind of numb right now.”

Anabo’s sister Analyn Novenario wrote on a Gofundme page that her brother would want “to make sure that Kiah reached his happiness whether its college or his other passions. The very fiber in me wants to make this happen. There is no need for funeral expenses, everything donated will go toward Kiah, his future, and my brother’s last wish.”

Anabo and co-owner Mark Legaspi opened Lucky Three Seven in 2013 to bring Filipino comfort food to the neighborhood while also finding creative ways to serve their community. The pair hosted food drives and community block parties. A vigil was set up in front of the restaurant to commemorate and mourn Anabo. 

Lucky Three Seven posted a screenshot of the Gofundme page on their Instagram account, letting people know that this is an official fundraiser endorsed by the family. 

“Watching and hearing the two interact with each other is like watching two best friends. Right now Kiah is in pain wondering why someone would take away his Papa from him,” Novenario wrote in the fundraiser’s description. 

Anabo’s son was with him at the time of the shooting. The investigation is ongoing, and no arrests have been made. 

Novenario set a goal of raising $20,000 for Kiah. As of the time this story was published, the family had raised around $60,000. 

Anabo’s killing shocked many as he was respected and loved, especially in Oakland’s food and arts scenes. 

Gabriel and Jose Ortiz, the co-owners of La Perla, announced on social media they would be closed in honor Anabo. “Tragically our family friend from Lucky Three Seven was murdered last night,” their post read. “Our sad reality hits too close to home.” Gabriel Ortiz was robbed at gunpoint outside his restaurant earlier this month.

As of now, Lucky Three Seven is indefinitely closed.

“We apologize for the inconvenience,” the business wrote in an Instagram post. “Although Jun would want us to keep it moving and keep it pushing… we find ourselves lost without him.”