Authorities in Stockton, California, are still searching for suspects in a devastating mass shooting that killed four people — including three children — during a toddler’s birthday party over the weekend. Investigators now believe more than one shooter was involved.
According to Fox News, the FBI has offered a $50,000 reward for information leading to an arrest. The victims were 8, 9, 14, and 21 years old.
All were attending a celebration for a 2-year-old when gunfire erupted without warning.
Patrice Williams, who organized the party for her daughter only a few days after Thanksgiving, said the group had just gathered around the cake when chaos broke out.
“As we got ready to start cutting her cake, everyone started gathering around and cutting the cake, and all we heard were gunshots,” Williams said. “Everybody just dove to the ground. It was just unexpected. I don’t know what happened. I’m just so shocked and lost and speechless.”
Williams expressed heartbreak for the families of the young victims.
“I just want to say I’m sorry to all the mothers out there that lost their kids at my birthday party,” she said.
In addition to the four killed, eleven others were injured. Williams said her sister, a cousin, and three friends were among the wounded.
San Joaquin County Sheriff Patrick Withrow said Monday that evidence suggests several shooters were involved, though authorities have not yet released descriptions or identified suspects.
“They deserve to be in jail. They deserve to go to hell,” Williams said. “I’m sorry, but I just … it’s not respectable. It’s a kids’ party.”
The sheriff’s office called the shooting a “horrific act” and said detectives are relying heavily on tips, surveillance video, and witness statements to track down those responsible.
Law enforcement officials are urging anyone with information to come forward as the manhunt continues.
