Stockton residents gathered for the city's annual tree lighting ceremony, just one week following a mass shooting that resulted in the death of four and injuries to thirteen. The event at Weber Point, covered by KCRA, saw one of the largest turnouts to date, as hundreds came together in music, light, and shared experiences, backed by increased security measures.
Stockton Mayor Christina Fugazi said, "I hope what this means to our community is that you can still have some joy, that there is hope out there for a better day and that they feel safe being here,” according to KCRA. Attendees expressed similar sentiments. Alexandria Archangel said, "It just brings a lighter heart to something so tragic that just recently occurred so I’m just happy to show support and be out here today.”
In an ABC10 interview, local mother Yolamnda Merino Salmeron spoke about the personal impact of the shooting and its effect on her family.
Stockton Mayor Christina Fugazi emphasized the need for healing beyond the arrest of the perpetrators. "Healing is also creating a space for our families that were affected by that, for our community that’s affected by it, and also making sure that we do whatever we can to make sure it doesn’t happen again," she said during the tree lighting, according to ABC10.
Stockton Police provided security for the tree lighting, including special checks. Mayor Christina Fugazi encouraged the community to spend time with loved ones and emphasized her ongoing discussions with legislators to secure investments for the community and its youth. She also urged anyone with information about the shooting to come forward.
