Stockton mass shooting that killed 4, including 3 kids, at child’s birthday party was gang-related: mayor
On Saturday evening, a gunman fired into a birthday party held at Monkey Space, a banquet hall about 40 miles south of Sacramento. The attack, which happened just before 6 p.m., left four people dead—an 8‑year‑old, a 9‑year‑old, a 14‑year‑old and a 21‑year‑old—and wounded 11 others, ranging from a child as young as 9 to adults in their twenties. Police say the shooting was probably targeted and the investigation is still in progress.
Mayor Christina Fugazi told reporters that the tragedy was tied to gang violence and called the incident “domestic terrorism.” She urged the community to confront the problem boldly. The mayor also said President Trump’s advisers had reached out early Sunday offering help, and she has asked the U.S. District Attorney to locate the gunman who remains at large. The White House has not yet responded.
San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Heather Brent explained that authorities began looking for a single suspect but now suspect there may have been more than one. Neighbors reported that the gunfire seemed to come from multiple positions, adding to the chaos. Deputy investigators said the assault was deliberate, and they continue to explore all possibilities.
Faith leaders and community organizers have scheduled a vigil for Sunday to honor the victims and pray for those injured. Schools in the area will provide counseling to students and staff coping with the loss, especially for the 8‑year‑old victim who attended a local school and whose parent works for the Stockton Unified School District.
In a heartfelt statement, Mayor Fugazi said, “They should be writing their Christmas lists right now. Their parents should be out shopping for them for Christmas. And to think that their lives are over. I can’t even begin to imagine what these families are going through. Breaks my heart.”
Authorities are begging anyone with information to call Crime Stoppers. District Attorney Ron Freitas has urged the shooter to “turn yourself in immediately.” Governor Gavin Newsom expressed his sorrow on X, noting that the victims were “just 8, 9, 14, and 21 years old— and that the attack was likely targeted,” adding that the community’s heart is truly broken.
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