A family gathering at a banquet hall in Stockton, California, turned to tragedy on Saturday evening after a shooting left four people dead and ten others wounded.
Scene of the Tragedy
The incident occurred just before 6 p.m. at a venue that shares a parking lot with other local businesses. According to Heather Brent, a spokesperson for the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office, the victims included both children and adults.
During a news conference at the scene, Brent stated that early indications "suggest this may have been a targeted incident." The city of Stockton, home to approximately 320,000 people, is located about 40 miles south of Sacramento.
Manhunt Underway
Local officials confirmed that the suspected shooter has not been apprehended. Detectives are still working to establish a motive for the violent attack.
San Joaquin County District Attorney Ron Freitas made a direct plea to the public during a news conference: "If you have any information as to this individual, reach out immediately. If you are this individual, turn yourself in immediately."
Community in Mourning
The human cost of the event was underscored by Stockton Mayor Christina Fugazzi. "Families should be together instead of at the hospital, standing next to their loved one, praying that they survive," she said, capturing the community's grief.
Authorities did not immediately provide additional details on the conditions of the ten wounded victims, though officials confirmed earlier that several had been transported to area hospitals for treatment.
