(FOX40.COM) — Four people have been pronounced dead after a mass shooting at a banquet hall in Stockton on Saturday evening, according to Heather Brent, a spokesperson for the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office.

The sheriff’s office said that people had gathered for a family event when the shooting occurred on the 1900 block of Lucile Avenue. 15 victims were struck in the shooting and hospitalised.

Brent told FOX40 in a press conference that deputies believe this may have been a targeted situation. However, crews on the scene said detectives are working on all scenarios of the incident.

This remains an active investigation and the roadway will be closed for some time until further notice.

At this time, the sheriff’s office has yet to report any arrest or identification of the suspect. Victims have yet to be identified.

SJCSO advises the public to stay clear of the area.

Reactions From Officials
Stockton Mayor Christina Fugazi stated during the presser that “Stockton is better than this.”

Fugazi addressed that this Thanksgiving weekend is “when families come together to celebrate, share memories, give each other love. Unfortunately, tonight heaven is a little bigger with the individuals, children and adults, that unfortunately did not make it.”

During the press conference, the San Joaquin County District Attorney Ron Freitas said, “A tragedy of this nature is unthinkable and it absolutely breaks our heart to have the loss of life and to have the loss of life to children in our community.”

Freitas advises that anyone with information regarding the incident or the suspect reach out immediately. He added, “If you are this individual, turn yourself in immediately.”

Stockton Vice Mayor Jason Lee said in a Facebook post, “I am devastated and angry to learn about the mass shooting at a child’s birthday party. An ice cream shop should never be a place where families fear for their lives.”

The office of the California Governor released a statement on X that the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services is monitoring the situation with local law enforcement.

Assemblymember Rhodesia Ransom issued a statement stating she is heartbroken by the violence and tragedy in the City of Stockton.

Ransom said, “I’m heartbroken by the violence and tragedy in Stockton and the senseless loss of life that has resulted from this. My heart is with the families experiencing unimaginable pain and with those who have been injured. These events are deeply traumatizing for our community. We are still gathering the facts as more information becomes available. In this difficult time, I’m holding everyone affected in my thoughts and prayers. I pray for peace, healing, and the sense of safety we all deserve.”