A joyful family celebration turned tragic on November 29, 2025, when gunfire erupted during a 2-year-old girl’s birthday party near Stockton, California. The shooting occurred at the Monkey Space event hall on Lucile Avenue in unincorporated San Joaquin County. Around 80 to 100 guests had gathered for the afternoon event when shots rang out shortly before 6 p.m. What many initially believed were fireworks quickly turned into panic as guests realized gunmen were firing inside the venue.
Four people were killed in the attack, including three children—8-year-olds Maya Lupian and Journey Rose Reotutar Guerrero, and 14-year-old Amari Peterson. A 21-year-old man, Susano Archuleta, also lost his life. Thirteen others were injured but later recovered and were released from hospitals by mid-December.
Investigators recovered more than 50 shell casings from at least five firearms, suggesting multiple shooters may have been involved. The San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office, working with federal agencies, continues to investigate. A $130,000 reward has been offered for information, but as of March 2026 no arrests have been made.The tragedy has deeply shaken the Stockton community, with residents continuing to call for answers and justice for the victims.
