A children’s birthday party in Stockton erupted into horror and chaos on Saturday evening when gunfire tore through a banquet hall, leaving four people dead, including children.
The mass shooting, described by authorities as a “targeted attack,” has also left at least ten others wounded.
The shooting began around 6 p.m., prompting a massive law enforcement response and emergency evacuations as stunned families ran for safety.
“Tragedy of this nature is unthinkable, and it absolutely breaks our hearts to have loss of life and to have loss of life to children,” San Joaquin County District Attorney Ron Freitas said.
An emotional video from the scene showed distraught family members embracing as deputies flooded the area.
San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Heather Brent called the attack “unfathomable,” adding:
“Early indications suggest this may be a targeted incident.”
Authorities confirmed a full-scale manhunt is underway for the suspect, who remains at large.
“Our number one priority is identifying a suspect,” Brent said.
“This is a very active and ongoing investigation.
“Information remains very limited at this time.”
Victims were rushed to nearby hospitals as ambulances lined the street near a Dairy Queen adjacent to the scene.
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Stockton Mayor Christina Fugazi said first responders moved swiftly to secure multiple locations and treat the wounded.
“Their professionalism reflects the very best of our city,” she said, noting she had spoken with California Gov. Gavin Newsom.
“Right now, our focus must remain on the victims, their families, and the safety of the community.”
The Governor’s Office released a statement Saturday night, noting:
“The Governor’s Office of Emergency Services is monitoring this evolving situation and coordinating with local law enforcement.”
Stockton Vice Mayor Jason Lee also expressed grief, writing on Facebook:
“Violence touched my life as a young person, and seeing our own children, parents, and neighbors go through this shakes me deeply.”
“Stockton is my home,” he continued, adding he was “pushing for answers.”
“These are our families.
“This is our community.”
Residents responded to the tragedy with heartbreak and anger.
“Stockton needs change so bad. This breaks my heart,” one commenter wrote.
“This is terrible. Babies getting shot,” another added.
Detectives are urging residents to avoid the area and come forward with any information.
“We are urging anyone with information, video footage, or who may have witnessed any part of this incident to contact the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office immediately,” the sheriff’s office stated.
“Community assistance is vital in helping us identify those responsible and bring justice to the victims and their loved ones.”
Stockton, a city of roughly 320,000 located 45 miles south of Sacramento, has grappled with rising violence in recent years.
Investigators are still working to determine a motive behind the deadly attack.
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