As electric vehicles gain popularity worldwide, gasoline-powered cars, including rental vehicles, remain prevalent. With approximately 150,000 gas stations scattered across the U.S., they have developed their own unique culture. Stops at places like Buc-ee’s can even be enjoyable experiences.
However, in larger cities, gas stations often attract loitering and mischief, occasionally escalating to dangerous situations. Some gas stations are even considered hazardous, prompting recommendations to refuel and purchase road snacks elsewhere.
Most Dangerous Gas Station in the United States
Online reviews have highlighted the notoriety of a Shell gas station near Oakland International Airport in California, specifically located at 285 Hegenberger Rd.
This particular station is known for being a hub of dangerous activities, particularly robberies and car break-ins, likely due to its convenient proximity to the airport.
The gas station, a popular stop for those returning rental cars after flying into the airport, has gained a reputation as one of the most unsafe in the area. Other nearby stations along the same stretch also report similar incidents.
The vicinity around the airport is recognized as one of the riskier areas in Oakland, prompting caution for those passing through.
While Oakland, the sister city of San Francisco, may seem inviting to visitors, it’s essential to stay vigilant and avoid potentially hazardous situations.
Cities like Oakland, known for attracting homeless communities, often witness an uptick in crime and theft, driven by factors such as unfortunate circumstances, mental health issues, drug addiction, and a struggle for survival.
Travelers, including those arriving in the United States, should be aware of these challenges and take precautions when navigating such areas.
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How Dangerous is This Gas Station?
This Shell station has a 2.5-star rating on Google Reviews, with 85 reviews posted since January 2018, and more than half of them mentioning incidents of robbery at the pump.
If that’s not reason enough to steer clear of this location, Reddit users also share firsthand experiences of similar encounters. Many individuals report incidents of car theft, often occurring while car owners are inside the gas station obtaining receipts or making purchases.
While six years might seem like a long time to gauge the severity of such issues, it’s noteworthy that the majority of these reviews and robberies occurred in 2023. In fact, all reviews posted in 2023 mention incidents of robbery at the pump.
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Is Oakland Usually Safe?
Forbes Magazine‘s 2023 ranking placed Oakland as the 11th most dangerous city in the United States. The city received a D- in its overall crime grade, highlighting a violent crime rate of 18.3 per 1,000 residents.
Despite its reputation, this doesn’t necessarily brand Oakland as a city to completely avoid. While it does have areas with safety concerns, conducting thorough research on both safe and risky neighborhoods is essential for a confident and secure visit.
Sometimes, cities facing challenges possess a unique charm and character, along with resilient and kind-hearted residents.
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To Conclude
Although it is always awful to see these unfortunate situations get out of control, that doesn’t imply tourists should avoid Oakland or other similar places.
Travelers can definitely add Oakland to their trip plans because there are many reasons to visit the city, notwithstanding the occasional gas station robbery.
Aside from serving as a helpful reminder to travel with an open mind and to stay informed, this Shell gas station should be avoided at all costs. In addition, it serves as a good reminder to always be kind and compassionate in the face of so much suffering in the world.
