Gunmen Open Fire at Toddler’s Party in Stockton
*A 2-year-old’s birthday party in North Stockton turned into a deadly tragedy on November 29. Around 6 p.m., multiple gunmen opened fire at the Monkey Space banquet hall on Lucile Avenue.
Four people were killed, including three children. Eleven others were injured in what local officials called one of the city’s most brutal mass shootings. About 100 to 150 guests were attending the party.
Victims Include Three Children and a Promising Teen Athlete
The victims were identified as Maya Lupian, 8; an unnamed 9-year-old child; Amari Peterson, 14; and Susano Archuleta, 21. Amari’s father, Patrick Peterson, performed CPR on his son after he was shot.
“He was just trying to meet a rapper at the party,” Peterson told reporters, adding that Amari was a star athlete and a loving son. Amari’s 12-year-old sister, Kaesanii, was grazed by a bullet but survived.
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Jasmine Dellafosse Among 11 Injured in Stockton Shooting
Local anti-violence advocateJasmine Dellafosse was among those injured, though her injuries were not life-threatening. One victim remains in critical condition as of December 2.
The injured ranged in age from 8 to about 30 years old. Families have launched online fundraisers to help with medical and funeral expenses.
Burna Boy Offers to Pay for All Four Funerals
Afrobeats superstar Burna Boy stepped in after hearing the heartbreaking story on “The Breakfast Club” radio show. He offered to cover the funeral costs for all four deceased victims.
He was connected to the families through music manager Wack 100 and Stockton Vice Mayor Jason Lee.
“When I heard about the children murdered in Stockton, my heart broke,” Burna Boy said in a statement.
Mayor Calls for Federal Help as Gang Ties Probed
Stockton Mayor Christina Fugazi said the shooting may be tied to gang violence. She reported that the city has 5,000 gang members in 100 different groups.
She urged the federal government to send resources, noting the city’s violent crime rate is 212% higher than the national average. Investigators believe the shooting may have been a targeted attack.
No Arrests Yet, but Investigators Seek Public’s Help
Authorities recovered shell casings and guns from a nearby rooftop. A manhunt is underway, but no arrests have been made in the shooting.
The FBI is offering a $50,000 reward, and Stockton CrimeStoppers added $25,000 more. Anonymous tips can be sent to (209) 946-0600 or via the sheriff’s website.
Unrelated Arrests Made Near the Shooting Scene
Five people were arrested on gang and weapons charges nearby, including a 16-year-old. But investigators say they are not linked to the birthday party shooting.
Two party guests were also arrested for parole violations, but their firearms were unrelated. The community remains on edge as police search for suspects.
Stockton Community Mourns and Mobilizes for Peace
Faith in the Valley held a vigil for the victims on the Sunday after the tragedy. Local leaders prayed and comforted grieving families.
The Youth Peace and Justice Foundation plans to meet with local gang leaders in hopes of reducing violence. Activist Jasmine Dellafosse was praised as a “selfless” hero by former Mayor Michael Tubbs.
Why This Story Matters: Children Targeted in a Mass Killing
This was the 17th mass killing in the U.S. in 2025 and the first in Stockton this year. It was the lowest national total since 2006, but the horror of children being gunned down shocked the nation.
Mayor Fugazi and others say the shooting reveals deeper issues with gang activity and access to weapons. Now, the community demands answers and justice.
NEW: Stockton Vice Mayor Jason Lee is pleading to the suspects who opened fire at a children’s birthday party.
“Call me. Call the mayor. Call whoever you know. Call the pastors. Call your friend. Turn yourself in.”
The tragedy left 3 children and one adult dead. https://t.co/5WbymLkcs1 pic.twitter.com/FrJ96N05sR
— E X X ➠A L E R T S (@ExxAlerts) December 1, 2025
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