A mass shooting at a child's birthday party in Stockton, California, on Saturday night tragically resulted in the deaths of four people and left ten others wounded, according to the San Joaquin County Sheriff's Office.

Authorities have described the incident as a targeted attack, and the investigation is rapidly unfolding, with no arrests yet announced.

The violence erupted shortly before 6 p.m. inside a banquet hall on the 1900 block of Lucile Avenue, an area roughly 50 miles east of San Francisco. The sheriff's office confirmed that approximately 14 individuals were struck by gunfire, with victims including both children and adults. Stockton Mayor Christina Fugazi expressed her devastation, saying, "Families should be together instead of at the hospital, standing next to their loved one, praying that they survive."

San Joaquin County Sheriff's Office spokesperson Heather Brent stated that early indications suggest this was a targeted incident, though detectives are still working to determine the precise circumstances and motive behind the attack. Authorities have not confirmed the number of shooters involved.

Stockton Vice Mayor Jason Lee confirmed via social media that the shooting occurred at a child’s birthday celebration, expressing his grief and anger. "Tonight, my heart is heavy in a way that's hard to put into words... I will be pushing for answers," he posted.

With the suspected shooter still at large, District Attorney Ron Freitas publicly pleaded for assistance: "If you have any information as to this individual, reach out immediately. If you are this individual, turn yourself in immediately."

Law enforcement officials are urging the public to assist in the investigation by providing any video footage or eyewitness accounts that could shed light on the incident, calling on anyone with information to contact the Sheriff's Office immediately.

California Governor Gavin Newsom has been briefed on the shooting, his office calling the incident "horrific." The tragedy adds to the growing list of gun violence cases across the state, intensifying calls for greater accountability and prevention efforts.

The shootings have stirred fresh outrage and sadness in Stockton — a city still reeling from the loss of innocent lives during an event meant to celebrate a child’s birthday. Neighbors, local leaders, and families are now grappling with the aftermath and demanding answers.

As investigators continue their work, the tragedy has once again underscored ongoing concerns across the United States about mass shootings, the danger they pose to public safety, and the urgency of measures to prevent such horrors.

The investigation remains ongoing. Authorities continue to collect evidence, interview witnesses, and canvass the area. (ILKHA)