Four people, including children and adults, have been killed with at least 10 more wounded after a suspected targeted mass shooting erupted at a children’s birthday party at an American ice cream shop
Four people are confirmed dead and at least 10 others have been wounded in a mass shooting at a children’s birthday party believed to be at Dairy Queen. Police said they believe the shooting may have been a “targeted incident”, with both children and adults confirmed as victims of the horror attack.
The deadly shooting occurred just before 6pm during a family gathering inside a banquet hall in Stockton, about 64 kilometres south of Sacramento, California, sheriff’s officials said on Saturday (November 29).
“We can confirm at this time that approximately 14 individuals were struck by gunfire,” the San Joaquin County sheriff’s office said in an online statement.
The statement continued: “Four victims have been confirmed deceased.
“This is a very active and ongoing investigation, and information remains limited.”
San Joaquin County sheriff’s office spokesperson Heather Brent added in a news conference at the scene that early indications “suggest this may have been a targeted incident”.
The shooter has not been caught, with police issuing a plea to the public for help as detectives work to identify a possible motive.
Authorities did not immediately provide additional information about the condition of the victims, who have been taken to hospitals throughout the region.
The San Joaquin County sheriff’s office issued a statement to express condolences to those involved, writing that their “thoughts are with the victims, their families, and everyone impacted by this senseless violence”.
The statement further noted: “We are urging anyone with information, video footage, or who may have witnessed any part of this incident to contact the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office immediately.
“Community assistance is vital in helping us identify those responsible and bring justice to the victims and their loved ones.”
San Joaquin County District Attorney Ron Freitas added: “If you have any information as to this individual, reach out immediately.
“If you are this individual, turn yourself in immediately.”
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