Family of Slain Teen in Stockton: Gunman Targeted Rapper

Four victims, including a 14-year-old boy named Amari Peterson, lost their lives in a shooting incident in Stockton, California. The tragedy unfolded during a two-year-old’s birthday party on a recent Saturday evening.

Details of the Stockton Shooting

Amari was attending the celebration with family, enjoying what should have been a joyful occasion. Violence erupted unexpectedly, claiming the lives of three children aged eight and nine, alongside a 21-year-old victim. His father, Patrick Peterson, reported that the assailant was likely targeting a rapper in attendance.

The attack was characterized by rapid gunfire, with Patrick recalling the harrowing moment as he stood frozen, witnessing the chaos unfold. He described hearing multiple shots, “pop, pop, pop,” before trying to locate his son.

A Father’s Desperate Attempt

As panic spread among the partygoers, Patrick grabbed his one-year-old daughter and rushed to find Amari. Tragically, he discovered his son wounded, gasping for breath. While administering CPR, he fought to keep his son alive until medics arrived. Unfortunately, Amari was pronounced dead at the hospital.

Community Reaction and Support

The tragedy has left the Peterson family devastated. Amari was described as an outgoing and athletic eighth grader with a promising future. His mother, Kimberly, expressed her heartbreak, sharing that plans for high school have tragically shifted to planning his funeral.

• Victims included three children aged eight, nine, and 14, plus a 21-year-old.
• Amari’s sister, Kaesanii, was also affected, sustaining a grazing wound from the incident.

The family has initiated an online fundraiser to help with their unexpected expenses during this tragic time.

Other Victims and Continued Investigation

Among those injured was Jasmine Dellafosse, known for her efforts in violence reduction in the community. Former Stockton mayor Michael Tubbs emphasized the impact of the tragedy on the entire community. Governor Gavin Newsom has ordered flags at the State Capitol to be flown at half-staff in remembrance of the victims.

Manhunt for the Shooter

Authorities have intensified their manhunt for the perpetrator(s) involved in this incident. Investigations are ongoing to determine the identity of the intended target, and whether multiple shooters were involved. The FBI has offered a $50,000 reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction.

Apologies and Responses

Patrice Williams, the mother of the birthday child, has expressed her sorrow to the families impacted by the shooting, stating that the gunfire started just as she was cutting the cake. Stockton’s mayor indicated the possibility of gang involvement but acknowledged more investigation is needed.

This heartbreaking event has sparked a broader conversation about gun violence and community safety, highlighting the need for collective efforts to address these ongoing issues.