According to early reports,Ā at least 4 people were killed and 10 others were rushed to the hospitalĀ after gunfire erupted during a young childās birthday party. Witnesses say the attack happened so quickly that parents barely had time to pull children to the ground.
Some neighbors initially thought it was fireworks ā until screams filled the street.
Several families had gathered for what was supposed to be a simple birthday celebration. Kids were opening gifts. Music was playing. Nothing seemed unusual.
Then, according to early witness statements, gunfire tore through the party within seconds.
Law enforcement described the scene as āchaotic,ā with overturned chairs, broken cups, balloons scattered across the yard, and terrified children clinging to adults.
Stockton authorities confirmed multiple fatalities and double-digit injuries. Several victims are in critical condition. Police have not yet clarified the motive or whether the shooter was known to the family.
āThis is one of the most heartbreaking scenes weāve responded to,ā an official said. āA childrenās party. Innocent families. Pure devastation.ā
Detectives are still piecing together how the attack unfolded. Neighbors are providing surveillance footage. Others are offering statements about a suspicious vehicle seen moments before the shooting.
As more details emerge, the community is grappling with grief, shock, and the grim reality that a childās celebration was turned into a crime scene.
Refresh this page for updates as this story continues to develop.
