Stockton, California – A weekend birthday celebration turned into a devastating tragedy after a shooting inside a Stockton banquet hall left four people dead, including three children, and at least eleven others wounded. Authorities say the attack took place just before evening on Saturday, shaking a community still recovering from past incidents of gun violence.
The San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the children killed were eight, nine and fourteen years old, while the fourth victim was a 21-year-old attending the celebration. The party was being held in honor of a young child, adding even more heartbreak to the deadly event.
What Investigators Know So Far
Sheriff’s spokesperson Heather Brent told reporters that the shooting unfolded inside a banquet hall that shares a parking lot with several nearby businesses. No arrests have been made, and investigators are working urgently to identify the attacker.
“This was a birthday party for a young child, and the fact that this happened is absolutely heartbreaking,” Brent said, standing outside the scene during a Sunday news briefing.
Detectives are focusing on gathering surveillance footage, interviewing witnesses, and piecing together a possible motive. At this time, authorities have not released details about the suspect’s description or whether more than one person may have been involved.
Search for the Shooter and Pleas for Public Assistance
Local officials are urging the public to come forward with any information that may lead to an arrest. San Joaquin County District Attorney Ron Freitas called the shooting “an act that cannot go unanswered.”
“If you have any information as to this individual, reach out immediately. If you are this individual, turn yourself in immediately,” Freitas said.
Authorities emphasized that even small tips could help move the investigation forward. The sheriff’s office confirmed that several victims were transported to hospitals, but details about their current conditions were not immediately released.
Community Response and Planned Vigil
Faith leaders in Stockton have organized a Sunday evening vigil to honor the victims and support the families of the eleven wounded survivors. The gathering is expected to include prayers, candles, and community messages urging unity during a difficult holiday weekend.
Mayor Christina Fugazi expressed deep frustration and sorrow over the violence, noting the tragic timing just after Thanksgiving.
“This is Thanksgiving weekend. This is when families come together, celebrate, share memories, give each other love,” Fugazi said.
“Unfortunately tonight, heaven is a little bigger with the individuals, children and adults that unfortunately did not make it.”
She referenced a previous mass shooting several years earlier in which seven people were killed, saying Stockton “is better than this” and must work to prevent more tragedies.
What Happened at the Banquet Hall
The shooting began shortly before 6 p.m., according to officials. The banquet hall where the party was held sits in a busy area of the city, which has a population of roughly 320,000 and lies about 40 miles south of Sacramento.
Law enforcement is reviewing the layout of the building, potential entry and exit points, and any disputes or conflicts that may have led to the attack. At this stage, investigators have not released a clear motive or explanation.
A Tragedy During a Family Gathering
As more details emerge, community members say they are heartbroken that a celebration meant to bring families together ended in the loss of three young lives. Officials described the scene inside the banquet hall as chaotic, with many families rushing their children to safety amid the gunfire.
“Families should be together instead of at the hospital, standing next to their loved one, praying that they survive,” Fugazi added.
Ongoing Investigation
The San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office continues to process evidence and work closely with district attorney staff. Medical teams are monitoring the wounded, and counselors have been made available for families impacted by the tragedy.
Authorities ask anyone with information about the shooter or events leading up to the incident to contact the sheriff’s office immediately.
Community Call to Action
Violence at family events has become a painful national trend, and Stockton leaders are encouraging residents to stay alert, support one another, and work with law enforcement to reduce similar tragedies.
If you live in the Stockton area and have seen or heard anything connected to the case, investigators stress that timely information is crucial.
Share Your Thoughts
How is your community responding to recent incidents of violence? Share your experiences and perspectives in the comments below.
