At least four people were killed and 10 others wounded after gunfire broke out during a child’s birthday celebration at a banquet hall in Stockton, California, authorities confirmed.
The San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office (SJCSO) said it received multiple emergency calls at around 6 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 29, reporting that approximately 14 people had been shot on Lucile Avenue. In a statement released on social media, the department confirmed that four victims had died at the scene, while several others were rushed to nearby hospitals.
“This is a very active and ongoing investigation, and information remains limited,” the sheriff’s office said. “Early indications suggest this may be a targeted incident, and investigators are exploring all possibilities.”
SJCSO spokesperson Heather Brent told reporters that the shooting occurred inside a banquet hall where a family gathering was underway.
“There was a birthday party taking place,” Brent said during a press briefing, according to ABC10. The victims range in age from children to adults, though officials have not yet released their identities.
“Our number one priority right now is identifying the suspect in this incident,” Brent added.
Officials have not disclosed any motive, and no arrests have been announced.
Massive Multi-Agency Response
The SJCSO is leading the investigation with support from several agencies, including the Stockton Police Department, Manteca Police Department, the District Attorney’s Office, and the FBI. Detectives are reviewing video evidence, interviewing witnesses, and examining the circumstances that led to the deadly shooting.
“Our thoughts are with the victims, their families, and everyone impacted by this senseless violence,” the sheriff’s office said. “We are urging anyone with information, video footage, or who witnessed any part of this incident to contact the SJCSO immediately.”
Stockton Mayor Christina Fugazi issued a statement calling the attack “devastating,” adding that the city was offering full support to investigators.
“As Mayor, I am ensuring every necessary resource is available,” Fugazi said. “Right now, our focus must remain on the victims, their families, and the safety of the community. Please keep them, and our first responders, in your prayers.”
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Vice Mayor Jason Lee also expressed heartbreak over the tragedy.
“A birthday party should never be a place where families fear for their lives,” he wrote. “Stockton is my home. These are our families. This is our community.”
Lee said he would be “pushing for answers” and urged residents to stand together in the aftermath of the attack.
“Please God, uplift our community,” he added. “We don’t deserve this — and we will not accept this as our norm.”
