STOCKTON, Calif. — Authorities in California are seeking witnesses to a tragic shooting that took place during a child's birthday party in Stockton, which resulted in the deaths of four individuals, including three children aged just 8, 9, and 14.
The shooting occurred on Saturday at a banquet hall, where approximately 100 people had gathered for the celebration. San Joaquin County Sheriff Patrick Withrow indicated that initial investigations suggest the possibility of multiple shooters, with gunfire reportedly continuing outside the event.
In addition to the fatalities, eleven others sustained injuries, with at least one person in critical condition. As of now, no suspects are in custody, prompting authorities to urge the public to provide any information, cellphone videos, or witness accounts that could assist in the investigation.
This is a time for our community to show that we will not put up with this type of behavior, when people will just walk in and kill children, Withrow remarked, as he called for community support in addressing the violence.
Authorities believe this incident was not random but rather a targeted attack. Investigators are looking into motives and potential targets but have not confirmed specific details.
Roscoe Brown, a member of the Stockton’s Office of Violence Prevention, was visibly shaken as he recalled his niece and nephew being victims. He drove from Arizona upon hearing the news and spoke out against the heinous act, emphasizing how unacceptable it is to shoot at a child’s party.
Meanwhile, Emmanuel Lopez shared with reporters that his brother, 21-year-old Susano Archuleta, died on the scene, while his daughter, aged 9, suffered a gunshot wound to the head but survived.
Stockton, a city with a population of about 320,000 and a troubling history of violence, faced 54 homicides last year, significantly above the state average. As of October this year, the city had already witnessed 34 homicides.
In the chaotic aftermath, police arrested five individuals on weapons and gang-related charges, but officials specified these arrests are not linked to the shooting at the party.
Mayor Christina Fugazi addressed the media, expressing her heartbreak over the young victims. She announced that counseling services would be offered at local schools to support students and families affected by the tragedy.
“They should be writing their Christmas lists right now. Their parents should be out shopping for them for Christmas. And to think that their lives are over — breaks my heart,” Fugazi lamented.
This shooting has left a profound impact on the community, highlighting the urgent need for action against gun violence.
