Shooting reported in California's Stockton: 4 dead, several hospitalised with injuries; Vice Mayor Jason Lee reacts

A horrifying shooting incident left four people dead and many injured in California's Stockton on Saturday, according to CBS. Stockton Vice Mayor Jason Lee confirmed it occurred at a child’s birthday party.

The San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office said deputies are investigating, and multiple victims were transported to hospitals. No further details have been released regarding the victims’ conditions.

Officials mentioned that the area remains an active crime scene as investigators continue gathering information.

“The San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office is currently investigating a shooting in the 1900 block of Lucile Avenue in Stockton. Several victims have been transported to local hospitals. This remains an active scene, and deputies are working to gather additional details. Information is still being confirmed and will be released as it becomes available. We will provide updates as the investigation progresses," San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office said on X.

It further said, "This remains an active scene, and deputies are working to gather additional details. Information is still being confirmed and will be released as it becomes available. We will provide updates as the investigation progresses."

California's Stockton shooting: Here's what we know

Scanner Radio reports indicate that at least 10 individuals were injured, including a 9-year-old, a 12-year-old and a 23-year-old. The shooter fired at people and then fled the scene. Authorities have not released any information about the suspect.

Videos shared on social media showed emergency responders at the scene. Footage from the area shows a significant police and ambulance presence, with several roads closed.

(Livemint couldn't independently verify the authenticity of the video)

What did witnesses say?

One of the users said, “I heard the shots as I was leaving a business meeting around the corner. Does anyone know if a white SUV was involved?” Another stated, “We seen all the Patrol cars responding westbound on Hammer Ln.”

A third person remarked, “We were having a kids birthday around the corner with alot of family we heard all the shots but we thought it was fireworks.” “I live down the street. I heard a bunch of shots. Was wondering what it was. Then went to get milk on the corner, and seen the street all blocked off. Hope things are ok," shared another resident.

Stockton Vice Mayor Jason Lee reacts

In a Facebook post, Lee said he was “devastated and angry" upon learning about it, mentioning, “an ice cream shop should never be a place where families fear for their lives”.

“Violence touched my life as a young person, and seeing our own children, parents, and neighbors go through this shakes me deeply. Stockton is my home. These are our families. This is our community," Lee further said.

Lee also assured that he would seek answers and was in contact with staff and public safety officials to understand what happened, further calling for justice using every available resource to support.

Lee added, “Tonight, I’m sending my thoughts, prayers, and love to the families who are hurting, to the children who witnessed this trauma, and to everyone across our city who feels this pain. Please God, uplift our community. We don’t deserve this. And we will not accept this as our norm.”