FAIRFIELD, Calif. — The search continued Thursday for the gunman who opened fire after a graduation ceremony at Fairfield High School in California, killing an 18-year-old and injuring three others, including an 11-year-old.
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A growing memorial now sits in the parking lot where families had gathered to celebrate graduation before the evening ended in gunfire. Police said they are still searching for the shooter as the community mourns the loss of the 18-year-old graduate.
The 18-year-old student died in his graduation gown.
“This gunman was very close, it was targeted from what the police is telling me. But they are telling me why, that is what they are trying to find out,” Fairfield Mayor Catherine Moy said.
Moy said a pastor who knows the victim’s family is helping them through the tragedy. Meanwhile, investigators continue searching for the suspect. Moy said police are collecting cellphones and surveillance videos as they pursue leads.
“Sadly, they got away, but they will get him. Some of the 300 witnesses they have spoken with so far, they know. Young man, turn yourself in. it is not going to be good for you to keep running, so turn yourself in,” Moy said.
One day after the shooting, graduation ceremonies across the Fairfield-Suisun Unified School District continued.
At Armijo High School, students and families observed a moment of silence before celebrating the Class of 2026. Parents said the community is determined not to let the violence overshadow the accomplishments of local students.
“We just have to keep them in our prayers today and have the celebration to show that these types of things are not going to stop us from celebrating great,” said Charles Curtis, a parent of an Armijo High School graduate.
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An increased security presence from Fairfield police was visible at the graduation ceremony.
“Having them here gives everyone a peace of mind,” Tafiaina, a graduation attendee, said. “Pretty sure the parents and the students and the families are welcome in too.”
As the community continues to heal, Moy said there must be accountability for those affected by the shooting.
“We need to have justice for all of them and that doesn’t bring the child back. It doesn’t bring back all of the pain that they all feel. The people who were running for their kids, you can’t take that away. I wish I could. I wish I could,” Moy said.
Moy said the school district did not ask police to be at the graduation ceremony Wednesday night.
However, the Fairfield Police Department later released a statement saying the school district did request security from the department, but the request was not made through an established channel. The department said it was not aware a request had been made.
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