STOCKTON, California - A joyous family gathering turned into a scene of horror when gunfire erupted at a banquet hall in northern California, leaving four people dead and several others injured in what authorities are investigating as a possible targeted attack.
Mass Shooting at Family Celebration
The tragic incident occurred on Saturday evening at a banquet hall located near the 1900 block of Lucile Avenue in Stockton, approximately 50 miles east of San Francisco. According to the San Joaquin County Sheriff's Office, 14 individuals were struck by gunfire during the violent outbreak.
Heather Brent, spokesperson for the sheriff's office, confirmed that "What we have confirmed at this time is that there was a banquet hall where a family was celebrating." The venue shares a parking lot with other businesses in the area.
Victims Range from Juveniles to Adults
Authorities revealed that the victims included both juveniles and adults, all of whom were transported to local hospitals for emergency treatment. While four victims were pronounced deceased, the conditions of the injured remain undisclosed as medical teams continue to provide care.
Stockton's Vice Mayor Jason Lee provided additional context through a Facebook post, indicating that the shooting occurred during a child's birthday party. He wrote: "I am in contact with staff and public safety officials to understand exactly what happened, and I will be pushing for answers."
Investigators Suspect Targeted Attack
Detectives working on the case have indicated that early evidence suggests this may have been a targeted incident. The sheriff's office stated that investigators are "working to determine the circumstances leading up to this tragedy" and are "exploring all possibilities."
Law enforcement officials have made a public appeal for assistance, urging "anyone with information, video footage, or who may have witnessed any part of this incident to contact the San Joaquin County Sheriff's Office immediately."
The gravity of the situation has reached the highest levels of California's government, with Governor Gavin Newsom's office confirming that he has been briefed on the shooting incident.
