At least four people, including a child, were killed and ten others injured when a gunman opened fire during a family gathering at a banquet hall in Stockton, California. The incident occurred shortly before 6:00 pm on Saturday, 29 November, on the 1900 block of Lucile Avenue, according to reports from local authorities.
Heather Brent, spokesperson for the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office, confirmed that the victims comprised both children and adults, though their exact ages and identities have not yet been released. Brent indicated that the shooting may have been premeditated, emphasising that the immediate priority for investigators is locating the suspect. It remains unclear whether the attack took place inside or outside the banquet hall.
Stockton Police, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and other law enforcement agencies are assisting in the ongoing investigation. Stockton Vice Mayor Jason Lee noted that the gathering was a children’s birthday celebration, heightening the tragedy of the attack.
California Governor Gavin Newsom’s office confirmed via X that the governor had been briefed on the situation. The California Office of Emergency Services is coordinating with local authorities to monitor developments and support emergency response efforts.
A summary of the incident is provided below:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Banquet hall, 1900 block of Lucile Avenue, Stockton, California |
| Date & Time | Saturday, 29 November, shortly before 6:00 pm |
| Fatalities | At least 4 (including 1 child) |
| Injured | 10 |
| Event Type | Family gathering / birthday celebration |
| Agencies Involved | San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office, Stockton Police, FBI, California Office of Emergency Services |
| Investigation Status | Ongoing; suspect not yet identified |
Authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant and report any information that may help locate the gunman. Officials have also cautioned the public to avoid the area while emergency personnel secure the scene and continue their investigation.
This tragic shooting has sent shockwaves through the Stockton community, highlighting ongoing concerns about gun violence at public gatherings in the United States. Local leaders have called for calm and expressed condolences to the families of the victims while promising a thorough investigation.