California Shooting: Four Dead & Ten Injured At Stockton Banquet Hall; Investigators Probe Targeted Attack

A family celebration in Stockton, California, turned into a scene of tragedy on Saturday evening when gunfire erupted inside a banquet hall, leaving four people dead and ten others injured. The shooting occurred just before 6 pm on the 1900 block of Lucile Avenue, according to officials from the San Joaquin County Sheriff ’s Office.

Families Trapped in Chaos as Shots Rang Out

Authorities said the event taking place inside the hall involved families and children. Stockton’s vice mayor, Jason Lee, stated on social media that the gathering was believed to be a child’s birthday party, turning what should have been a joyful occasion into a devastating incident. The hall shares a parking area with nearby businesses, adding to the shock among bystanders and local residents.

Heather Brent, the sheriff’s office spokesperson, said both adults and children were among the victims. “It is unfathomable that there are young children who are harmed, that there was anyone who was harmed in this,” she told reporters at the scene. Brent added that early findings “suggest this may have been a targeted incident,” though detectives are still working to determine what prompted the shooting.

Investigation Underway With Federal Support

Local authorities responded to multiple emergency calls reporting gunfire shortly before 6 pm. As officers arrived, they found several victims inside the hall. Some of those wounded were transported to nearby hospitals, though officials have not yet released details on their conditions.

Given the seriousness of the attack, several federal agencies have joined the investigation. Representatives from the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) are now working alongside local detectives. Officials are reviewing evidence from the hall and surrounding area, including CCTV footage from neighbouring businesses that share the parking lot.

Community in Shock as Police Search for Answers

The incident has left the Stockton community shaken, particularly because families and children were in attendance during the shooting. Vice mayor Lee said he is in contact with city staff and public safety officials and expects a full explanation. “I will be pushing for answers,” he said.

Authorities have not confirmed a motive, nor have they shared information about suspects. Detectives continued interviewing witnesses late into the evening, trying to piece together how the violence unfolded and whether the shooter or shooters had a specific target.

Officials Urge Patience as Probe Continues

Police have appealed to the public for information and have urged residents with knowledge of the incident to come forward. Brent reiterated that the investigation is progressing but will take time. She emphasised the emotional toll the tragedy has taken on the community. “Our hearts go out to those victims, to their families and to our community,” she said.

The banquet hall remained cordoned off on Sunday as forensic teams examined the site. Meanwhile, residents and community leaders expressed grief and concern, hoping authorities can quickly shed light on what led to the deadly attack.