UPDATE: A horrific shooting at a family gathering in Stockton has left four people dead and 10 others wounded, authorities confirmed Saturday evening. The incident occurred just before 6 p.m. at a local banquet hall, sending shockwaves through the community of 320,000 residents, located roughly 40 miles south of Sacramento.
Local officials, including Heather Brent from the San Joaquin County sheriff’s office, indicated that initial investigations suggest the shooting may have been a targeted attack. “Families should be together instead of at the hospital, standing next to their loved one, praying that they survive,” said Mayor Christina Fugazzi during a press conference at the scene.
As of now, the suspected shooter remains at large, prompting law enforcement to urge the public for immediate assistance. “If you have any information about this individual, reach out immediately. If you are this individual, turn yourself in immediately,” stated San Joaquin County District Attorney Ron Freitas. Authorities have not disclosed details regarding the conditions of the victims, but several have been transported to nearby hospitals.
This tragic event adds to Stockton’s troubling history of gun violence. It echoes previous incidents, including the unsolved 2024 murder of Carlos Honable, who was shot multiple times while parked in his car. Stockton is also grappling with the legacy of one of America’s deadliest school shootings, which occurred in 1989 at Cleveland Elementary School, claiming the lives of five children.
Detectives are actively working to identify a motive behind the shooting, with the community left in fear and mourning. The emotional toll is palpable as families deal with the aftermath of this violence. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.
As investigations unfold, residents are left hoping for swift justice and answers in a city that has seen too many tragedies related to gun violence. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as it unfolds.
