California Birthday Party Turns Tragic as Gunfire Mistaken for Balloons Popping

A birthday celebration in Stockton, California, descended into tragedy when gunfire erupted inside a banquet hall, killing four people—including three children—and injuring eleven others. The host, Patrice Williams, initially believed the loud bursts were balloons popping from earlier decorations, only to realise moments later that the sounds were gunshots.

The violence broke out during a gathering of nearly 100 guests celebrating Ms Williams’ two-year-old daughter. Her older daughter, a cousin, and three friends were among those struck by bullets as partygoers prepared to cut the cake. Others had been about to sit down for dinner when the shooter—or multiple shooters—entered armed with an automatic weapon. Authorities believe the attack was targeted.

Investigators say the gunfire began inside the venue and continued onto the street. It remains unclear whether anyone returned fire. Ms Williams, who did not see the assailants, expressed devastation and disbelief, saying she had no idea who would commit such an act of violence at a child’s party.

The once-festive setting, decorated with rainbow balloons and a swan-shaped bounce house, is now a sealed crime scene under investigation by the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Department, the FBI, and other federal agencies.

Stockton, located about 80 miles east of San Francisco, has experienced rising violent crime in recent years. According to the Public Policy Institute of California, the wider San Joaquin Valley recorded the highest violent crime rate in the state in 2023.

Sheriff Patrick Withrow stated that authorities are confident the shooting was not a random act and believe multiple suspects were involved. While the shooters remain at large, officials say there is no ongoing threat to the public. Law enforcement is urging residents to submit videos, tips, and information as they piece together what happened.

Stockton Mayor Christina Fugazi vowed that the perpetrators would be caught, urging anyone involved to surrender. While she suspects gang violence may have been the motive, the sheriff said it is too early to draw conclusions.

California Governor Gavin Newsom ordered flags at the state capitol to fly at half-staff in honour of the young victims. Families have since begun identifying the deceased.

Among them is eight-year-old Maya Lupian, described by her sister as an outgoing and talented child who excelled academically, loved the arts, and held a purple belt in karate. Also killed was 14-year-old Amari Peterson, a promising student-athlete from Modesto who had dreams of attending college. His nine-year-old sister survived after escaping through a back door and climbing a fence.

The 21-year-old victim, identified by family as Susano Archuleta, died at the scene after being shot in the neck. His brother said he died in his arms.

Family members—many still in their party clothes—returned to the venue the following day to collect their belongings, too frightened to reveal their names. The tenant of the event space said the building, formerly a children’s theatre and recording studio, may never reopen. “There’s no business there anymore,” he said. “It’s a memorial.”