In a tragic turn of events, Stockton, California, became the scene of a harrowing mass shooting on Saturday, claiming the lives of four individuals, including three young children. The community is now grappling with this heart-wrenching loss as law enforcement agencies escalate their efforts to find those responsible.
The investigation into this devastating incident has now drawn the attention of the FBI, which is collaborating with various regional agencies in a concerted effort to track down the perpetrators. The urgency of the situation has sparked a widespread manhunt as authorities work tirelessly to bring justice to the victims and their grieving families.
San Joaquin Sheriff’s Public Information Officer, Heather Brent, emphasized the commitment of law enforcement to resolve this case. “This has been the number one priority. Our focus is finding that suspect, and we are not going to stop until we do,” she stated, underscoring the determination driving the ongoing search.
To aid in the swift capture of those responsible, the FBI has announced a reward of up to $50,000 for information leading to arrests or convictions. This significant incentive reflects the gravity of the situation and the collective resolve to see justice served.
Authorities have indicated the possibility of multiple individuals being involved in the shooting. “They do believe at this time that there is more than one person involved,” Brent noted, adding a layer of complexity to the investigation as the search for justice continues.
“They do believe at this time that there is more than one person involved,” said Brent.
RELATED: 3 children among 4 killed in mass shooting at California child’s birthday party: officials
At least 100 people gathered at the event space on Saturday to celebrate a 2-year-old girl’s birthday. On Monday, the girl’s mother spoke for the first time.
“As we got ready to start cutting her cake, everyone started gathering around and cutting the cake and all we heard were gunshots. Everybody just dove to the ground. It was just unexpected. I don’t know what happened. I’m just so shocked and lost and speechless. I just want to say I’m sorry to all the mothers out there that lost their kids at my birthday party,” said Patrice Williams.
RELATED: California family was about to cut the cake when gunfire erupted at a toddler’s birthday party
The victims ages are 8,9,14 and 21 years old.
“My daughters dad’s niece, both his nieces passed away. My sister actually got shot. My cousin got shot. My son’s friend got shot. Three of my friends got shot. My friend’s baby dad got shot and killed,” said Williams.
The family of the 14-year-old victim identified him as Amari Peterson. A teen who loved sports. His family making it clear on a GoFundMe account that was created for his funeral expenses that he was “not involved in any gang activity.”
“They believe this was a targeted incident. They are not calling it gang related, but they have seen that information online and again they are exploring that information,” said Brent.
At least 10 bullets hit a nearby home. Brandon Hernandez lives in Stockton. He was in his bedroom when three bullets went through his walls missing him and his dog Rocky by inches.
“Really scared about this. It’s really bad,” said Hernandez.
Brandon said he ran to the back to hide with his girlfriend as the shooting continued for at least 5 minutes.
Luz Pena: “What were you thinking that whole time?”
“I was thinking I was going to die,” said Hernandez.
The San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Department said their team is going down all avenues and don’t believe there is any threat to the general public. No arrests have been made at this time.
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