A birthday party thrown by popular livestreamer NateDeBaiits turned deadly when a gunman opened fire, killing one person and injuring six others near Morgan Hill, California, on Saturday night.
The Shooting
The event, promoted on social media as an unsanctioned "pop-up" party, drew roughly 300 attendees to an open field near Hale Avenue and Miramonte Avenue, in an unincorporated area outside Morgan Hill, according to the Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office.
Deputies were first alerted around 10:15 p.m. after receiving reports of drunken individuals in the street and someone hurling bottles at cars. By the time officers arrived, hundreds of partygoers were scattering as gunshots echoed through the air.
Victims
One reveller, identified by relatives as 18-year-old Desiderio "Desi" Romero V, also called "Pepper," was fatally shot. Family members described him as a beloved son, brother, grandson, cousin and friend, while a fundraising page said he had been taken "far too soon."
Six others sustained bullet wounds, with injuries to the shoulder, abdomen and ankle. Some were later released from hospital, while others initially remained hospitalized.
Streamer's Response
NateDeBaiits seemed to confirm the casualty was his friend and former schoolmate in a series of social media posts. He wrote: "My deepest condolences to his family and everyone who loved him. This doesn't even feel real." He also urged followers to keep the wounded in their prayers.
In another post, he said: "This is one of the hardest things I've ever had to post." He stressed he wasn't posting for attention or sympathy, but because "someone I called a friend/classmate lost his life at my party." The streamer later revealed the violence was beyond his control and disclosed plans to leave San Jose following death threats.
Investigation
Authorities believe a handgun was used in what they described as an isolated incident. As of July 30, no arrests had been made. Sheriff Robert Jonsen condemned the violence and said investigators would work "until those responsible for this horrific act are identified, apprehended, and held fully accountable."
The sheriff's office characterized the investigation as extensive and complicated, urging anyone with information, footage or awareness of the party to come forward.
The horrific scenes were captured on a livestream of the party, with footage showing the mood suddenly shift as the sound of gunfire sent people fleeing.
