Us News

One dead, 6 injured after gunfire erupts at unsanctioned California party that drew hundreds: sheriff

A massive rural California party turned deadly when gunfire broke out, leaving one person dead and six wounded as authorities launched a homicide investigation.

Published July 26, 2026, 8:15 PM
Updated July 26, 2026, 8:33 PM2.2K
Share𝕏f
One dead, 6 injured after gunfire erupts at unsanctioned California party that drew hundreds: sheriff

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

At least one person was killed, and six others were injured after gunfire erupted at a massive party in rural California Saturday night, sending hundreds of attendees scrambling for safety, authorities said.

The incident unfolded shortly after 10 p.m. local time in Morgan Hill, about 25 miles south of San Jose, according to the Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office.

Authorities said the gathering was an unsanctioned party promoted on social media that drew more than 300 attendees.

GUNFIRE SHATTERS TORONTO LATIN STREET FESTIVAL, LEAVING AT LEAST 2 DEAD AND MULTIPLE WOUNDED

San Jose police vehicles and an armored vehicle block an intersection behind police tape

FILE - A shooting erupted in Morgan Hill, California, about 25 miles south of San Jose, on July 25, 2026, prompting San Jose police to respond to the scene. (KTVU)

Deputies initially responded to reports of intoxicated people in the road and someone throwing bottles at passing vehicles, but arrived to find the party in chaos after gunfire erupted, according to the sheriff's office.

Responding deputies provided lifesaving aid until emergency medical personnel arrived, but one person was pronounced dead at the scene.

Officials said multiple others suffered gunshot wounds and were rushed to local hospitals.

GUNMAN CHARGED AFTER WOUNDING 9 IN TUCSON NIGHTLIFE SHOOTING BEFORE COP TAKES HIM DOWN

lake in mountainous region

FILE - The Anderson Lake is seen in unincorporated Morgan Hill, California, on Aug. 8, 2022. Authorities are investigating a deadly shooting at an unsanctioned Morgan Hill party that drew more than 300 attendees. (Li Jianguo/Xinhua)

Preliminary information indicates the suspect used a handgun, though no suspects have been publicly identified.

Homicide detectives said they believe the shooting was an isolated incident and noted the investigation is expected to be "lengthy and complex."

"This tragic and senseless violence is entirely unacceptable," Santa Clara County Sheriff Robert Jonsen said in a statement. "Our hearts go out to the victim's family, those recovering from their injuries and everyone in our community affected by this traumatic event."

"We will work tirelessly until those responsible for this horrific act are identified, apprehended, and held fully accountable," Jonsen added.

line of police cars on street

FILE - Multiple law enforcement agencies responded after a shooting erupted in Morgan Hill, California, on July 25, 2026, leaving one person dead and six others injured. (DAVID PASHAEE/Middle East Images/AFP)

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

Officials said multiple agencies responded to the scene, including the Morgan Hill Police Department, Gilroy Police Department, California Highway Patrol and San Jose Police Department.

Fox News Digital reached out to the Morgan Hill Police Department, Gilroy Police Department, California Highway Patrol and San Jose Police Department for more information.

Bonny Chu is a Breaking and Trending News Writer for Fox News Digital

Share𝕏f
News17 is committed to delivering accurate, fair, and thoroughly researched reporting. If you believe this article contains an error, please contact our editorial team at corrections@news17.net. We take all reports seriously and will issue corrections promptly when warranted.