Four Dead, Including Three Children, in Stockton Birthday Party Mass Shooting; 9-Year-Old Identified

Stockton, California – A mass shooting at a child's birthday party in Stockton on November 29 has resulted in the deaths of four individuals, including three children, sending shockwaves through the community. Among the victims identified is 9-year-old Journey Rose Reotutar Guerrero, whose family has released a poignant statement mourning her loss. The incident, which also left eleven others wounded, occurred at a banquet hall and involved multiple suspected shooters.

Journey Rose, a third-grader at Commodore Stockton Skills School, was described by her family as a "kind and helpful 9-year-old girl" who loved art, crafting, baking, and gymnastics. Her family statement, shared via social media, highlighted her dreams of becoming a cheerleader and a doctor, noting, "Journey was growing up beautifully and should have had a long life where she could learn and play as much as she pleased." She is survived by her three siblings.

The tragedy also claimed the lives of 14-year-old Amari Peterson, an 8-year-old child, and 21-year-old Susano Archuleta. Initial reports indicate the shooting began inside the venue and spilled outside, with authorities suggesting a possible gang-related motive, though law enforcement has not officially confirmed this. Community activist Jasmine Dellafosse was also among those injured.

The Stockton Unified School District (SUSD) and San Joaquin Delta College have mobilized extensive mental health support for students, staff, and families affected by the violence. SUSD Superintendent Dr. Michelle Rodriguez emphasized that the impact extends beyond individual schools, stating, "When you have a mass shooting in a community, it doesn’t just impact the one school; it’s going to impact all 55." The district is providing in-home mental health support for the family of the 8-year-old victim, who was an SUSD student and whose mother is an employee.

This incident underscores the devastating impact of gun violence on children, who are increasingly becoming victims. Firearm-related deaths among children and adolescents have seen a sharp increase in recent years, with gun assaults accounting for a significant portion. Exposure to such violence can lead to severe mental health consequences, including PTSD, anxiety, and poor academic performance, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive community support and intervention strategies.

Stockton Mayor Christina Fugazi has appealed for federal assistance to address the pervasive issue of gang violence in the city, calling for a "full panel of people here in this city, all working together to stop this gang violence." The community is rallying with vigils and donation drives, seeking to provide comfort and support to the grieving families and to advocate for lasting change. Journey Rose's family has requested donations and prayers to support them during this difficult time.