Horror at Children's Birthday Party as Gunman Opens Fire
A family celebration in northern California turned into a scene of carnage after a gunman opened fire at a children's birthday party, leaving four people dead and fourteen others wounded. The shooting occurred just before 6pm on Saturday inside a banquet hall in the city of Stockton, located approximately 64 kilometres south of Sacramento.
Police Confirm Targeted Attack as Manhunt Continues
San Joaquin County sheriff's officials have stated they believe the shooting may have been a "targeted incident." Both children and adults were among the victims of the attack. The shooter remains at large, prompting a major investigation and a public plea for assistance from detectives.
Heather Brent, a spokesperson for the sheriff's office, addressed the media at the scene, confirming that early indications point towards a deliberate attack. "We can confirm at this time that approximately 14 individuals were struck by gunfire," the office said in an initial online statement. "Four victims have been confirmed deceased."
Authorities have described the investigation as "very active and ongoing" and have not yet released the identities of those who were killed. The condition of the fourteen wounded individuals, who were transported to various hospitals across the region, has not been immediately disclosed.
Community Urged to Assist Investigation
In the wake of the violence, the San Joaquin County Sheriff's Office issued a statement expressing their condolences to the victims and their families, calling the event "senseless violence." They are now urgently appealing to the public for help.
"We are urging anyone with information, video footage, or who may have witnessed any part of this incident to contact the San Joaquin County Sheriff's Office immediately," the statement read, emphasising that community assistance is vital to identify those responsible.
Echoing this sentiment, San Joaquin County District Attorney Ron Freitas made a direct appeal: "If you have any information as to this individual, reach out immediately. If you are this individual, turn yourself in immediately." The hunt for the perpetrator continues as the community reels from the tragedy.
