Authorities in Stockton, California, are appealing for witnesses to come forward after a mass shooting at a child’s birthday party left seven people dead, including three children.
The incident occurred Saturday at a banquet hall where over 100 people had gathered to celebrate a 2-year-old’s birthday. Three children ages 8, 9 and 14 and a 21-year-old were killed when gunfire erupted, according to San Joaquin County Sheriff Patrick Withrow. Investigators believe the shooting continued outside the venue and may have involved multiple gunmen.
Eleven others were wounded in the attack, with at least one person in critical condition. By Sunday evening, no arrests had been made in connection with the shooting. Authorities characterized it as a “targeted incident,” though they haven’t disclosed who may have been the intended target.
Sheriff Withrow made an impassioned plea for the community’s help, emphasizing that staying silent makes such violence acceptable. Officials are asking for any information, including cellphone footage, witness statements, or even rumors that could aid the investigation.
Roscoe Brown, whose family was celebrating his great-niece’s birthday, works for Stockton’s Office of Violence Prevention. He expressed disbelief at the senseless violence, questioning how anyone could attack children at a party. His niece and nephew were among those shot.
One victim’s brother told media that 21-year-old Susano Archuleta died at the scene after being shot in the neck, while his 9-year-old daughter survived a gunshot wound to the head.
Stockton, a city of 320,000 about 80 miles east of San Francisco, recorded 54 homicides in 2024, well above the state average. Mayor Christina Fugazi expressed heartbreak over the young victims, noting they should be writing Christmas lists instead of becoming statistics. One child attended a local school where counselors will be available this week.
While police arrested five people on weapons and gang charges hours after the shooting, authorities said there’s no indication those arrests are connected to the banquet hall killings.
