Nationwide — Maya Lupian, an 8-year-old African American girl from Stockton, California, was among four people killed in a mass shooting at a birthday party. She was just two weeks away from turning 9 and had been a lively, bright third grader.
The shooting occurred last Saturday during a 2-year-old’s birthday celebration. About 100 people were at the party when gunfire broke out, leaving four dead and 11 injured. Authorities described it as a devastating event and called it a “targeted incident,” according to KTVU.
Maya, a karate student who loved school, was remembered fondly by her family and friends. Her family set up a GoFundMe page to honor her memory, which has raised nearly $61,000 so far.
Other victims included a 9-year-old, a 14-year-old Amari Peterson, and a 21-year-old. Amari’s father remembered him as a “gentle soul.” Families are now mourning together as the city tries to process the tragedy.
The FBI has joined local police in searching for the suspects. Authorities have increased the reward for information from $25,000 to $50,000, asking anyone with tips to come forward.
The venue owner, who leases the space where the shooting took place, says he does not plan to reopen. “There’s no business there anymore. It’s a memorial,” he said.