A festive gathering turned tragic in Stockton, California, when a gunman opened fire during a child’s birthday party at a local banquet hall. Four people — including three children aged 8, 9, and 14, plus a 21-year-old adult — were killed. Eleven other guests suffered gunshot wounds.
The violence struck shortly before 6 p.m. Saturday near Lucile Avenue with multiple shots fired inside the hall. Witnesses described a chaotic scene as families fled in panic. Authorities responded immediately and transported the injured to nearby hospitals while securing the area.
Officials from the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office said early evidence suggests the shooting may have been targeted. They are treating the case as an active homicide investigation and have launched a manhunt for the suspect, who remained at large Sunday.
As the community reels from grief and shock, local leaders appealed for calm and urged anybody with information to come forward. A vigil has been planned to honor the victims and support their families.