What Really Happened at the Stockton Family Party Shooting? Four Dead, Many Injured as Gunman Remains at Large
Authorities in California’s Central Valley are investigating a deadly shooting that erupted during a family gathering in the Stockton area Saturday evening, leaving four people dead and injuring more than a dozen others. Officials say the suspect has not yet been identified and remains on the run, prompting an urgent manhunt and increased police presence throughout the community.
The violence unfolded shortly before 6 p.m. near the 1900 block of Lucile Avenue, a commercial area north of downtown Stockton. According to the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office, the incident occurred inside a banquet hall situated behind a Dairy Queen, where families had gathered for what was described as a celebratory event. Witnesses reported chaos as gunfire broke out, sending both children and adults scrambling for safety.
Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Heather Brent told reporters that between juveniles and adults, at least 14 people were shot, with four tragically losing their lives. Several others were rushed to local hospitals with a range of injuries, though the severity of each case has not yet been released. Brent emphasized that while information remains scarce, early investigative findings suggest the attack may have been targeted rather than random.
“It appears this was not an indiscriminate act,” Brent said during a late-night press briefing. “We are working around the clock to identify the individual responsible. This investigation is extremely active, and we are still verifying details as they come in.”
Local law enforcement agencies, along with state emergency officials, are closely monitoring the situation. Governor Gavin Newsom’s Office of Emergency Services confirmed Saturday evening that the state is coordinating with local authorities as more information is gathered. Rep. Josh Harder also issued a statement expressing heartbreak and offering support to the affected families.
“I’m devastated at news of a mass shooting in Stockton,” Harder wrote. “My office is in contact with local law enforcement, and we are praying for the victims and their families during this unimaginable tragedy.”
Stockton Vice Mayor Jason Lee released an emotional message on social media, calling the shooting “gut-wrenching” — particularly because many of the victims were attending what he described as a child’s birthday celebration. Lee vowed to push for answers and ensure the community receives transparency from investigators.
“Our community deserves clarity and justice,” Lee said. “Families should never have to fear for their lives while celebrating at an ice cream shop or a local venue. We will not rest until the truth is uncovered.”
Deputies are urging anyone with information, including video footage or witness accounts, to contact the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office immediately. They have also asked the public to avoid the area near Thornton Road while investigators process the scene. Businesses in the plaza remained closed late into the night as authorities cordoned off the immediate vicinity.
Stockton, located about 50 miles south of Sacramento and 100 miles northeast of San Francisco, has faced multiple acts of gun violence in recent years. Saturday’s incident is among the deadliest in the region this year. Officials say updates will be released as soon as they are verified, with the search for the shooter continuing into Sunday.
FAQs
1. How many people were injured in the Stockton shooting?
At least 14 people were shot, with four confirmed dead and the rest hospitalized.
2. Where did the shooting take place?
Inside a banquet hall behind a Dairy Queen near the 1900 block of Lucile Avenue in Stockton, California.
3. Was this a random shooting?
Investigators believe the attack may have been targeted, though the motive is still unknown.
4. Has a suspect been arrested?
No. The shooter is still at large as authorities continue their investigation.
5. Who is leading the investigation?
The San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office is the primary investigating agency.