Four people killed in shooting at child's birthday party in California

Tragedy struck in Stockton, California, on Saturday when a gunman opened fire at a birthday party, resulting in the deaths of three children and one adult. Authorities report that an additional 11 people sustained injuries during the attack at a banquet hall hosting over 100 guests, according to the San Joaquin County Sheriffs Office.

The deceased victims were aged eight, nine, 14, and 21. The shooting occurred just before 6 p.m. local time in Stockton, a city of approximately 320,000 located about 40 miles south of Sacramento.

Officials have confirmed that the suspect remains at large and have urged anyone with information to come forward. Detectives are investigating potential motives behind the attack.

If anyone has details about this person, please contact authorities immediately. If you are the shooter, surrender yourself without delay, said San Joaquin County District Attorney Ron Freitas at a press briefing.

The sheriffs office initially reported that about 14 people were struck by gunfire, with four confirmed fatalities, later adjusting the total number of injured to 15. This remains an active investigation, and details are limited. Preliminary findings indicate this may have been a targeted act, and all possibilities are being examined, the office said on X.

Stockton Mayor Christina Fugazi paid tribute to the victims, saying, Heaven is a little bigger tonight. Families come together during Thanksgiving weekend to celebrate and cherish one another, but tonight, some children and adults are no longer with us.

Mayor Fugazi added that she had spoken with California Governor Gavin Newsom, who expressed support for city officials and law enforcement. Governor Newsoms office confirmed that he is closely monitoring the situation. The victims were just 8, 9, 14, and 21 years old. This was likely a targeted attack. Our hearts go out to the families and the Stockton community, Newsom wrote on X.

Vice Mayor Jason Lee described the violence as deeply unsettling. As someone who has experienced the impact of violence, seeing our own children, parents, and neighbors affected shakes me profoundly. Stockton is our home, and these are our families and community, he said.

Democratic Congressman Josh Harder of Stockton expressed his devastation over the incident, stating he is praying for the victims and their families.

Author: Sophia Brooks