Police in California are searching for multiple suspects after a shooting at a family gathering in Stockton left four people dead, including three children, and 11 others wounded. The incident occurred on Saturday night at a banquet hall where at least 100 people had gathered for a birthday celebration.
The victims who died were aged eight, nine, 14 and 21, according to Heather Brent, a spokesperson for the San Joaquin County Sheriff's Office. Three adults were reported to be in stable condition at a local hospital, while one of the injured was in critical condition.
Authorities believe the shooting was a targeted attack, though they have not elaborated on who may have been the intended target. Sheriff Patrick Withrow stated that there appeared to be multiple shooters. “Finding the person or persons who committed this crime is the No 1 priority,” Brent said.
The shooting occurred just before 6pm on Saturday inside a banquet hall in Stockton, a city of 320,000 about 45 miles south of Sacramento. Sheriff's detectives are working to determine the circumstances leading up to the tragedy.
District Attorney Ron Freitas urged the shooter to “turn yourself in immediately.” Faith leaders in the area planned an afternoon vigil to honour the victims. California Governor Gavin Newsom expressed condolences, saying, “Our hearts break for their families and the entire Stockton community.”
