A man has been taken into custody by police in Stockton, California, following a deadly shooting at a local church that left one woman dead and two others wounded.
Chaos Erupts During Church Service
The violent incident unfolded on Sunday, 1st December 2024, at the House of Restoration Pentecostal Church. According to the Stockton Police Department, officers were called to the scene shortly after 11:30 am local time following reports of an active shooter.
Authorities have identified the suspect as 38-year-old David Alonzo Montes. He was apprehended at the scene without further incident. Police confirmed that a firearm was recovered.
Tragically, the shooting resulted in the death of a woman inside the church. Two other individuals sustained non-life-threatening injuries and were transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. Their current condition is reported as stable.
Community Reels from Senseless Violence
The attack has sent shockwaves through the Stockton community, a city already grappling with concerns over violent crime. Local residents and congregation members expressed profound grief and disbelief outside the cordoned-off church.
Stockton Police Chief, Stanley McFadden, addressed the media, stating the investigation is in its "very preliminary stages." He confirmed that the suspect acted alone and that there is no ongoing threat to the public. The motive behind the shooting remains unclear and is under active investigation.
"Our hearts go out to the victims, their families, and the entire congregation affected by this terrible act," Chief McFadden said during a press briefing.
Ongoing Investigation and Community Response
Detectives and forensic teams spent hours processing the crime scene, a crucial step in piecing together the events that led to the tragedy. The San Joaquin County District Attorney's Office is expected to file formal charges in the coming days.
City officials have pledged support for the affected families and the wider church community, with counselling services being made available. The incident has sparked renewed conversations about safety in places of worship and broader efforts to address gun violence.
As the legal process begins, the community of Stockton is left to mourn and seek answers in the wake of a peaceful Sunday service turned into a scene of horror.
