STOCKTON, Calif. — Gunfire erupted during a child’s second birthday party in Stockton on November 29, 2025, killing four people — including three children — and wounding at least 10 others in a sudden outbreak of violence that shattered a family celebration.
Witnesses described chaos as shots rang out just before cake was to be served at the Monkey Space event hall. What began with singing and balloons ended with bodies on the lawn and parents shielding children with their own bodies. Among the dead were 8-year-olds Maya Lupian and Journey Rose Reotutar Guerrero, 14-year-old Amari Peterson, and 21-year-old Susano Archuleta.
Investigators believe multiple shooters were involved and have recovered evidence from at least five firearms. The shooting appears to have been targeted, possibly linked to ongoing disputes, though no arrests have been made in the killings as of early June 2026. Authorities have released images of vehicles of interest and continue seeking witnesses.
In the aftermath, the neighborhood has transformed the site into a makeshift memorial with flowers and deflated balloons. Local counselors are working with traumatized children, while residents and leaders have called for stronger intervention programs and community support to prevent future violence in everyday settings.
The incident has left Stockton residents questioning the safety of ordinary public gatherings and renewed discussions about addressing the roots of gun violence in the Central Valley.