A devastating incident unfolded at Unity Park in Stockton on Wednesday afternoon, resulting in the death of a Cesar Chavez High School student and the hospitalization of another.
The 17-year-old male student, who was in his junior year, was fatally shot near the park's basketball courts. Another student, also a junior at Cesar Chavez High School, was pistol-whipped and subsequently transported to a local hospital. Authorities confirmed that the injured student is expected to survive.
The Stockton Police Department received the first call reporting the shooting at 3:07 p.m. In response to the tragic event, the high school was put on lockdown for about 15 minutes to ensure the safety of the students and staff.
As the school community grapples with the aftermath of this tragedy, counselors, mental health clinicians, and social work assistants will be on campus to provide support for those affected by the incident.
Residents living near Unity Park have reported previous instances of violence at the location. In response to the shooting, Stockton police announced that they will be increasing their presence around the park to ensure the safety of the community. Meanwhile, investigators are still searching for the shooter, with no suspect information available as of Wednesday night.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward and contact the Stockton Police Department. The community is left in shock as they mourn the loss of a young life and hope for the speedy recovery of the injured student.