What Happened in Stockton? Heartbroken Father Recalls Teen Son’s Final Moments

A grieving father is sharing the devastating final moments of his 14-year-old son after the Stockton, California, mass shooting on November 29. The attack unfolded at a toddler’s birthday party, killing four people, including three children. The tragedy has renewed urgent questions about what happened in Stockton and why gunfire erupted during a family celebration.

Police say the shooting happened at a banquet hall on Lucile Avenue as guests gathered to cut the cake. The gunmen opened fire on the crowd without warning. Authorities are still searching for the shooter or shooters as families mourn and the wider community demands answers.

Father Shares Final Moments of His Son After Stockton Shooting

Patrick Peterson attended the birthday party with his son, 14-year-old Amari, and other family members. According to Peterson’s emotional account to Sacramento ABC station KXTV, the gunfire began moments after the cake was brought out. Amari was struck above the heart and collapsed during the chaos.

Peterson said he tried to save his son while also protecting his daughter, who was grazed by a bullet. He described seeing Amari crawling on the ground as he attempted CPR, calling the moment unbearable and replaying constantly in his mind. “All I can see is my son crawling on the ground and me trying to resuscitate him. He had one bullet hole right above his heart,” he told reporters.

Family members described Amari as a gentle soul who loved sports and dreamed of college. His mother, Kim Peterson, told local reporters that her son was “innocent” and simply a child attending a child’s party. A GoFundMe page was launched to help with funeral expenses, describing him as a bright, loving teen who played football, basketball, and track.

The shooting also killed two other children and one adult, according to police. No arrests have been made as of December 2. The FBI previously offered a reward of up to $50,000 for information leading to suspects. Stockton Mayor Christina Fugazi announced an additional $25,000 reward through Crimestoppers and community contributions.

Community Grieves as Search for Gunmen Continues

The Stockton community has been shaken by the violence, with many asking what could have motivated the attack at a child’s event. Officials from multiple agencies, including the FBI, are assisting Stockton Police in the search for suspects. Investigators have not released details about a potential motive.

Residents have held vigils and shared tributes for the young victims. Community advocates say the heartbreak felt by families like the Petersons underscores the ongoing toll of gun violence on children and parents. For many Stockton residents, the question of what happened in Stockton is now tied to a larger movement demanding safety and accountability.

The Peterson family says their focus now is honoring Amari’s memory and seeking justice. They hope anyone with information will come forward as the investigation continues.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What happened in Stockton during the birthday party?

A mass shooting erupted during a toddler’s birthday party on November 29. Four people were killed, including three children. The shooter or shooters fled the scene.

Q2: Who was the 14-year-old victim identified in the shooting?

Amari Peterson, a Modesto teen, was among the victims. His family described him as loving, athletic, and full of potential.

Q3: Has anyone been arrested in the Stockton shooting?

As of December 2, no suspects have been arrested. Multiple agencies are involved in the investigation.

Q4: What rewards are being offered for information?

Officials have announced a combined reward of up to $25,000 through Crimestoppers and local contributions. The FBI has previously offered up to $50,000.

Q5: How is the community responding?

Residents are holding vigils, sharing tributes, and supporting the victims’ families. Many are calling for urgent action to reduce violence.