A tragic mass shooting at a banquet hall in Stockton, California, resulted in the deaths of three children aged 8, 9, and 14, along with a 21-year-old adult. The incident occurred during a child’s birthday party on Saturday evening, just before 6 p.m. The event took place in the 1900 block of Lucile Avenue, north of the Stockton city limits.
Details of the Incident
According to the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office, a total of 15 people were shot during the attack, with 11 individuals sustaining injuries. The investigation is ongoing, and no arrests have been made at this time.
Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Heather Brent stated they are exploring all possibilities but have not identified a suspect or motive. Authorities have urged anyone with video footage or information to contact the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office or Stockton Crime Stoppers.
Community Response
Residents in the area are deeply affected by this violent act. Armando Reyez, a 32-year-old local, expressed concerns for the safety of his own children, aged 6 and 4. “Now I worry about my kids,” he said, reflecting a sentiment shared by many in the neighborhood.
Emilia Soto, who lives nearby, described hearing numerous gunshots and law enforcement sirens. “This was the first time I heard gunfire nearby in three years,” she noted.
Community gatherings were organized to support one another. Yolanda Morgande, a local chaplain, attended the site to pray for victims and offer comfort. She emphasized the need for solidarity in the face of increasing violence, stating, “We don’t want our grandkids thinking violence is alright.”
Vigil Planned
A vigil is set to take place near the shooting site at 3 p.m. on Sunday. Richard Stoeckl from Faith in the Valley is coordinating the event, aiming to create a space for the community to grieve. “In our city, we don’t think of these things happening,” he remarked, stressing the tragic loss of young lives.
Context of the Shooting
This violent episode echoes memories of a previous tragic shooting incident at Cleveland Elementary School in 1989, where five children lost their lives. Bishop Dwight Williams expressed his long-standing connection to Stockton and his hope for the city to unite against violence.
Local leaders, including Mayor Christina Fugazi, have condemned the violence and called on residents to assist law enforcement in their investigation. “Children should not be harmed by gun and gang violence,” stated San Joaquin County District Attorney Ron Freitas.
Key Facts from the Incident
- Event: Mass shooting during a child’s birthday party
- Date: Saturday, just before 6 p.m.
- Location: 1900 block of Lucile Avenue, Stockton, CA
- Fatalities: 4 (3 children aged 8, 9, and 14; 1 adult aged 21)
- Injuries: 11 individuals
- Victims: Included juveniles
This shooting has sparked a profound response from the community and local leaders, as they seek to understand and confront the violence affecting their city. The investigation continues as authorities seek justice for the victims.
