Authorities in California urged witnesses of a deadly shooting at a child’s birthday party to come forward as the search for suspects extends into a second day. The tragedy unfolded at a banquet hall in Stockton, where gunfire erupted, killing four individuals, including three children aged 8, 9, and 14.
San Joaquin County Sheriff Patrick Withrow disclosed that the party, attended by over 100 people, quickly escalated into chaos, with detectives suspecting multiple shooters involved in the gunfire that also continued outside the venue. Eleven others sustained injuries during the incident, with at least one victim in critical condition.
“This is a time for our community to show that we will not put up with this type of behavior,” Sheriff Withrow asserted. “If you know anything about this, you have to come forward.”
The sheriff's office believes the shooting was a targeted attack, although details on who the potential targets may have been remain under investigation. As the community grieves, faith leaders organized a vigil to honor the victims.
Roscoe Brown, whose family was intimately affected by the tragedy, expressed profound disbelief at the senselessness of the crime. “Who would come and do that to some kids, you know?” stated Brown, highlighting the innocence lost amid the violence.
The mayor of Stockton, Christina Fugazi, shared heartfelt sentiments about the young victims, lamenting the impact of their loss on families, particularly as the holiday season approaches. “They should be writing their Christmas lists right now,” Fugazi remarked, underscoring the tragedy of lost futures for the young victims.
The shooting marks a grim chapter for Stockton, a city with a troubling history of gun violence, where community leaders are pushing for change amidst rising crime rates. As police continue to investigate the shooting, the community urges action and justice for those affected.
