Washington, Nov 30 (NationPress) Tragically, at least four individuals lost their lives, and 10 others sustained injuries during a shooting incident at a family event in Stockton, located in California, as reported by local media citing official sources.

According to Heather Brent, a spokesperson for the San Joaquin County Sheriff's Office, the shooting erupted at a banquet hall situated along the 1900 block of Lucile Avenue on Saturday night (local time). The victims, which include both juveniles and adults, were gathered to celebrate a child's birthday, as per CBS News.

The San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that an investigation is underway, with preliminary findings indicating that the incident might have been a “targeted attack.”

In a statement released on X, the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office reported, “Shortly before 6:00 p.m., we received notifications of a shooting near the 1900 block of Lucile Avenue in Stockton. Currently, it is confirmed that around 14 individuals were hit by gunfire, with four fatalities confirmed. This is an active and ongoing investigation, and information is still limited. Initial indications suggest a targeted nature to this incident, and all possibilities are being explored by investigators.”

“Detectives are diligently working to uncover the circumstances that led to this tragedy. Our thoughts are with the victims, their families, and all those affected by this senseless violence. We urge anyone with information, video, or who may have witnessed any part of this incident to reach out to the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office immediately. Community assistance is crucial in identifying those responsible and achieving justice for the victims and their families. Further updates will be provided as soon as they can be confirmed,” it added.

California Governor Gavin Newsom has been informed about the shooting incident in Stockton.

In an update shared on X, the Governor Newsom Press Office stated, “Gavin Newsom has been briefed on the horrific shooting in Stockton. The Governor’s Office of Emergency Services is monitoring this evolving situation and coordinating with local law enforcement.”

Stockton Vice Mayor Jason Lee expressed his devastation and anger regarding the shooting occurring at a child’s birthday celebration. He emphasized that a birthday party should not be a venue where families fear for their safety.

In a statement on Facebook, Lee remarked, “Tonight, my heart is heavy in a way that’s hard to articulate. As Vice Mayor of Stockton — and someone who grew up in this community — I am devastated and angry to learn about the mass shooting at a child’s birthday party. A birthday party should never invoke fear for families. Experiencing violence in my youth, seeing our children, parents, and neighbors endure this deeply unsettles me. Stockton is my home. These are our families. This is our community.”

“I am in contact with staff and public safety officials to ascertain exactly what transpired, and I will be advocating for answers. Our community deserves the truth, and the affected families require justice and all available support. Tonight, my thoughts, prayers, and love go out to the families who are suffering, to the children who witnessed this trauma, and to everyone in our city who feels this pain. Please God, uplift our community. We don’t deserve this. We will not accept this as our standard,” he added.