Four people lost their lives and at least ten others were wounded Saturday night during a tragic mass shooting at a family gathering in Stockton, California. The incident — now being referred to in coverage as the “stockton shooting” — took place around 6:00 p.m. in a banquet hall along the 1900 block of Lucile Avenue, according to the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office. The victims range from juveniles to adults, and authorities say early evidence indicates the attack may have been targeted.
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What happened
Law enforcement responded to reports of gunfire at a banquet hall just before 6 p.m. Pacific Time. The hall was hosting what local officials described as a “family gathering,” and the city’s vice mayor characterized it as a child’s birthday party. Roughly 14 people were struck by bullets. Of those, four were declared dead at the scene or shortly thereafter, while ten others were taken to hospitals for treatment. Victims include both children and adults.
Aftermath & Ongoing Investigation
Authorities have not yet identified a suspect, and no arrests have been made. The Sheriff’s Office has said the investigation remains “very active,” and its preliminary findings suggest the attack was possibly targeted — though motive and further details remain unknown. Local, state, and federal agencies are reportedly collaborating in the probe.
In public statements, city and county officials expressed heartbreak and outrage. The city’s mayor called the shooting “horrific,” urging calm and community solidarity. The district attorney appealed for the responsible party to turn themselves in, while officials asked anyone with information — including video footage or eyewitness accounts — to contact law-enforcement.
Widespread Shock and Community Grief
The shooting has deeply rattled Stockton and beyond. What began as a seemingly ordinary family celebration spiraled into a scene of trauma and loss. For many community members, the banquet hall was supposed to be a place of joy and togetherness. Instead, it became the site of unspeakable tragedy. Local leaders emphasized that no family should endure such violence — especially while celebrating.
Broader Context and What This Means
This tragedy adds another grim entry to the growing list of mass shootings in the United States — and underscores persistent concerns about gun violence, safety at public and private gatherings, and the challenge of preventing targeted attacks. The fact that the victims included children makes the event especially heartbreaking, and likely to intensify calls for stronger protections and accountability.
Authorities continue to urge anyone with information about the shooting to come forward. Investigators are working around the clock to understand what led to the violence and to bring those responsible to justice.
If you have information or footage, please contact the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office — your help could be vital.