A child’s birthday party in Stockton turned tragic Saturday evening when a mass shooting left four people dead, including three children, and injured 11 others. The incident took place just before 6 p.m. in the parking lot of a banquet hall on Lucile Avenue, located in an unincorporated area of the city.
On Monday morning, remnants of the celebration remained visible at the scene. A cup labeled “Nalayah’s 2nd Birthday” was found among half-eaten food, marking what had been a joyful occasion disrupted by violence. Authorities continued their search for suspects as the FBI announced a $50,000 reward for information related to the shooting.
Patrice Williams, who identified herself as Nalayah’s mother and is a resident of Galt, spoke outside San Joaquin Superior Court on Monday. “That was my family,” Williams said. She confirmed that at least one family member died and others were injured but declined to provide further details. “I just really ask for comfort,” she added.
Community members visited the site throughout Monday, leaving flowers and holding prayers near candles set up outside the Monkey Space meeting hall at The Outpost shopping center. Evidence of violence was still present with blood stains next to soda cans and balloons behind the building.
Truong Nguyentan, who owns a nearby tax services business and has lived in Stockton for 13 years, expressed concern about crime in the city: “Right now, in Stockton, (there’s) too much crime,” Nguyentan said.
Stockton has faced challenges with violent crime over many years. In 2024, there were 54 homicides reported in Stockton—slightly above California’s state average according to statistics from local news outlet Stocktonia.
Brandon Hernandez lives across from where the shooting occurred and described his experience during the attack. He initially mistook gunfire for fireworks before realizing what was happening as he saw people running and screaming. Hernandez sought shelter with his girlfriend in their backyard shed while bullets struck his home. “I haven’t slept here since,” Hernandez said in Spanish. “I don’t feel safe knowing what happened.”
Authorities have not released information regarding suspects or motives but indicated that they do not believe it was a random act. Both Stockton Mayor Christina Fugazi and San Joaquin County Sheriff Patrick Withrow urged patience as investigators continue reviewing evidence.
When asked if she knew why the shooting occurred or about rumors suggesting gang involvement circulating on social media, Williams responded: “I don’t really know anything at all.” She also addressed other families affected by such violence: “All I can say is that I’m sorry to all the mothers and children out there,” Williams said. “If I could do anything to prevent this, I would.”
