by Stockton, CA — A deadly mass shooting at a children’s birthday celebration in Stockton has left a local rapper fearing for his life and staying in hiding after both he and his wife were wounded, according to his father. The attack, which unfolded during a gathering for a 2-year-old girl, claimed the lives of three children and one young adult, and resulted in 15 total victims.
The injured musician, known professionally as MBnel, was among those struck by gunfire inside Monkey Space, a popular banquet hall in Stockton. His father, Junior Dongon, confirmed the details in an interview on Saturday evening.
Return to Visit Friends Turns Into Violence
MBnel — whose real name is Johnel Dongon — had previously left Stockton and relocated to an area outside Sacramento, seeking distance from escalating violence in the city of nearly 300,000 residents.
According to his father, the 28-year-old rapper only returned to Stockton briefly to meet up with friends and drop off a birthday gift.
“He just came to drop off a present for his friend’s daughter, who was the celebrant,” Junior Dongon explained. “He was shot, but he is OK. He called me and said, ‘Don’t say anything to anybody.’”
History of Threats and Previous Shooting
The rapper’s decision to leave Stockton originally stemmed from long-standing safety concerns. Dongon shared that their family home had been targeted during a previous violent episode when gunmen fired 22 bullets at the residence.
The family has lived with ongoing fear of retaliatory violence ever since.
“My daughter-in-law was hit in the butt,” Dongon said, expressing worry for both his son and his wife. “We are worried. I’m worried about my wife, but I can’t do anything about it.”
Authorities Call Shooting Gang-Related
Local officials have described the shooting as gang-related, a conclusion shared by Stockton Mayor Christina Fugazi, who condemned the violence that cut short the lives of multiple young victims.
The birthday celebration, meant to honor a 2-year-old child, turned into one of the city’s deadliest events in recent months. Investigators are continuing to search for suspects and motives as the community grapples with grief and shock.
A City Struggling With Violence
Stockton has faced a long battle with violent crime, and the weekend massacre underscores the ongoing public safety challenges. Although MBnel had attempted to build a life outside the city, his brief visit placed him once again in the path of danger.
The rapper, now recovering from his injuries, is believed to be staying in an undisclosed location out of fear for his life.
Community leaders are urging residents with information to come forward, as families mourn the victims — three children and one young adult — whose lives were abruptly taken.
How should cities like Stockton address rising gun violence? Share your thoughts, reactions, and condolences in the comments below.
