BLACK mobile logo

california

community

Sacramento: Survivors of Violence Demand More Resources for Prevention and Support at State Capitol

January 23, 2026

Following a devastating mass shooting at a Stockton children's birthday party in November 2025 that killed four people including three children, survivors, activists, and lawmakers gathered at California's State Capitol to demand increased state funding for violence victims. The coalition is specifically requesting flexible cash assistance for survivors, trauma recovery centers, and free mental health services for young people affected by gun violence. Families like the Petersons, who lost their 14-year-old honor student son Amari, have struggled with inadequate resources while coping with their trauma and displacement.

Who is affected

  • Families of the four victims killed in the November 29, 2025 Stockton shooting: Susano Archuleta (21), Maya Lupian (8), Journey Rose Reotutar Guerrero (8), and Amari Peterson (14)
  • 13 people injured in the Stockton shooting
  • The Peterson family, specifically Patrick Peterson (father) who has been displaced and lacks resources
  • Survivors of violence across California (Stockton, Bay Area, Sacramento, Los Angeles, San Diego, and Central Valley)
  • Children and youth who experience gun violence
  • Women and marginalized communities affected by violent crimes
  • System-impacted communities served by EMPACT

What action is being taken

  • California Highway Patrol crime suppression teams are being deployed to Stockton to target repeat offenders and seize illegal guns and drugs
  • The San Joaquin County Sheriff's Office is actively seeking information about two suspect vehicles from the shooting
  • EMPACT is assisting families affected by the shooting while they are in Sacramento
  • Californians for Safety and Justice and Crime Survivors for Safety and Justice are advocating for legislative investments in victim support

Why it matters

  • This situation highlights a critical gap in California's response to gun violence, showing that law enforcement action alone is insufficient without comprehensive victim support services. Families like the Petersons are experiencing compounded trauma from both the loss of loved ones and the lack of resources for housing stability and mental health care, making recovery virtually impossible. The tragedy demonstrates how violence doesn't end at the crime scene but creates ongoing humanitarian crises for survivors who need flexible financial assistance, trauma recovery centers, and accessible mental health services to rebuild their lives and sense of safety.

What's next

  • Advocates are calling on the California Legislature to prioritize three specific investments: flexible cash assistance for survivors, trauma recovery centers, and free mental health services for children and youth who experience gun violence
  • California Highway Patrol will continue expanding crime suppression teams in Stockton with increased personnel to maintain a visible presence

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint