Stockton Community Holds Vigil After Deadly Mass Shooting

In Stockton, heartbreak turned into a call for unity Sunday as faith leaders and community members gathered to honor the victims of a tragic mass shooting that took four lives and left 11 others injured. The vigil, organized by Faith in the Valley, took place on Thornton Road, drawing local officials and families seeking comfort.

The shooting unfolded Saturday evening at a banquet hall during what officials described as a birthday celebration. The San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the victims who died were just 8, 9, 14 and 21 years old, with several others still recovering from injuries. Authorities believe the attack was targeted, and the suspect remains at large.

At the vigil, Stockton Mayor Christina Fugazi and Vice Mayor Jason Lee urged the community to resist retaliation and instead support law enforcement efforts to bring justice. Lee shared his own experience with grief, acknowledging how difficult such a choice can be, especially in the face of devastating loss.

“Parents brought their children out and they left with medical examiners,” Lee said, urging anyone grieving to contact law enforcement rather than act on anger. Fugazi echoed a simple but urgent message: “Put the gun down.”

Among those mourning was Stockton Unified Superintendent Michelle Rodriguez, who confirmed that one of the children killed attended a district school and that the victim’s parent is a teacher. She said the tragedy has deeply shaken the school community.

Community organizers say this moment must spark long-term action to address violence in Stockton. “We need to make a change today,” said Richard Stoeckl of Faith in the Valley, encouraging residents to stay engaged and support one another.

As the investigation continues, officials emphasize that there is no broader threat to the public but are calling for anyone with information to come forward.

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