URGENT UPDATE: Four people have been confirmed dead, and 14 others injured following a shocking shooting at a child’s birthday party in Stockton, California, on Saturday night. The incident occurred shortly before 6:00 p.m. local time (0200 GMT) in the vicinity of the 1900 block of Lucile Avenue, according to local authorities.
The San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office reported that first responders arrived to find a chaotic scene, with multiple victims struck by gunfire. “We can confirm at this time that approximately 14 individuals were struck by gunfire, and four victims have been confirmed deceased,” the office stated in a post on X.
Stockton’s Vice Mayor Jason Lee expressed his devastation through a Facebook post, stating, “I am in contact with staff and public safety officials to understand exactly what happened, and I will be pushing for answers.” Authorities are currently in the early stages of an active investigation. Initial reports suggest this may have been a targeted incident, though no details about a shooter have been released.
Former Congresswoman and anti-gun violence advocate Gabby Giffords reacted strongly to the tragedy, saying, “This is horrific. A children’s birthday party on a holiday weekend turned into a scene of a mass shooting – turning a celebration into a nightmare. My heart goes out to the families of those killed, the injured, and the survivors.” Giffords emphasized the urgent need for federal leaders to act against gun violence, stating, “Kids shouldn’t have to fear for their lives when celebrating their birthdays.”
This devastating event has sent shockwaves through the community, highlighting ongoing concerns about safety during public gatherings. Families gathered to celebrate what should have been a joyous occasion are now facing unimaginable grief and trauma.
The investigation is ongoing, and public safety officials are urging anyone with information to come forward. As details emerge, the community and the nation await answers to this tragic act of violence.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
