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Stockton, California — A Child’s Birthday Party Turns Violent
What began as a cheerful Saturday gathering — balloons strung along fences, kids laughing, a birthday cake waiting to be cut — descended into one of the most shocking incidents Stockton officials have reported in years.

Early reports indicate that at least four people were killed and ten others hospitalized after gunfire suddenly erupted during a young child’s birthday celebration. Witnesses say the shots came so fast that many parents only had seconds to shield their children. Some neighbors initially mistook the noise for fireworks until screams filled the street.

Inside the home, several families had gathered to open gifts and enjoy music when gunfire tore through the party. Officers described a chaotic scene: overturned chairs, scattered balloons, broken cups, and terrified children holding onto adults.

Authorities confirmed multiple fatalities but have not released a motive or clarified whether the shooter knew the victims. Detectives are reviewing surveillance footage and interviewing neighbors as the community grapples with shock and grief.