Tragic shooting at California party leaves four dead, including three children

Authorities in California reported that four individuals, including three children, lost their lives and 11 others sustained injuries during a shooting at a birthday celebration, describing it as a deliberate attack possibly involving multiple shooters. The incident occurred on Saturday evening inside a banquet hall in Stockton, a city located northeast of San Francisco, where approximately 100 to 150 guests were present for the party.

San Joaquin County Sheriff Patrick Withrow revealed the ages of the deceased victims as eight, nine, 14, and 21 years old. He noted that at least one of the injured remains in critical condition, though details about the others are limited. "Based on current information, it seems there were multiple shooters involved," Withrow stated, urging the public to exercise caution as the investigation continues.

Earlier, Sheriffs spokesperson Heather Brent described the shooting as a "targeted" attack. The sheriff's department is asking anyone with knowledge or video evidence related to the case to come forward. No arrests have been made to date. "These perpetrators entered and shot children at a birthday event, and that is unacceptable," Withrow emphasized. "If you have any information, you must report it."

Stockton Mayor Christina Fugazi announced a $25,000 reward for information leading to the capture of the suspects. While Sheriff Withrow has not confirmed a gang connection, Mayor Fugazi called the act a deliberate form of terrorism, highlighting the ongoing issue of gang violence in cities nationwide.

Authorities also discovered firearms on the roof of the banquet hall, though it is unclear if they are linked to the attack. California Governor Gavin Newsom was briefed on the situation, according to his offices social media. The Gun Violence Archive reports that this incident marks one of 504 mass shootings in the United States so far this year, with a mass shooting defined as an event in which four or more people are shot.

Author: Sophia Brooks