A child’s birthday party in Stockton, California, turned deadly Saturday when gunfire erupted inside a home,
killing at least four people and injuring 10 others, authorities said.
What began as a celebration with “balloons taped to fences”
and children opening gifts descended into panic as parents rushed to protect their kids.
Witnesses said the shooting happened within seconds,
with some neighbors initially mistaking the noise for fireworks.
Police described the scene as “chaotic,” with party decorations scattered and children clinging to adults.
Officials confirmed multiple fatalities and several victims in critical condition.
The motive remains unclear, and investigators have not said whether the shooter was known to the family.
“This is one of the most heartbreaking scenes we’ve responded to,” an official said.
“A children’s party. Innocent families. Pure devastation.”
Detectives are reviewing surveillance footage and witness accounts as the community mourns.
