Jessie Hilliard Jr, Antwane Perkins Obituary, Death: Victims identified in Stockton shooting: men aged 19 and 27.

Jessie Hilliard Jr, Antwane Perkins Obituary, Death – Two men who were shot and killed on Monday afternoon in Stockton have been identified by the San Joaquin County Medical Examiner’s Office. The victims were Jessie Hilliard Jr., aged 19, and Antwane Perkins, aged 27, both of whom were residents of Stockton. The fatal shooting occurred in the 300 block of South San Joaquin Street near the intersection with Sonora Street, a location not unfamiliar to local authorities due to previous violent incidents.

Stockton police received a report of gunfire at approximately 4:45 p.m. Upon arrival, officers discovered Hilliard and Perkins at the scene, both suffering from gunshot wounds. Despite immediate efforts by first responders, both men were pronounced dead at the scene. Initial police statements described the victims as being in their 20s before the medical examiner released their identities and confirmed their exact ages.

The incident has triggered a homicide investigation, and detectives are currently working to piece together what led to the deadly shooting. At this point, authorities have not disclosed any information about a possible suspect or suspects. The motive behind the shooting also remains unclear. Investigators have not commented on whether there is any known relationship between Hilliard and Perkins, and it is still uncertain if they were specifically targeted or simply caught in a violent encounter.

This shooting adds to Stockton’s growing list of homicides this year. As of now, the city has seen 17 homicides, a decrease from the 23 reported during the same period last year. Although this number suggests a slight improvement, the frequency and concentration of violence in certain areas, such as South San Joaquin Street, continue to be a pressing concern for both law enforcement and community members. In 2024, the city experienced a total of 45 homicides, indicating that gun violence remains a serious and ongoing issue.

The area where this recent shooting took place—South San Joaquin Street, just south of Highway 4—has been the site of multiple shootings this year alone. In fact, three additional lives have already been lost in two separate incidents in the same vicinity. Among those killed were two 17-year-olds, further highlighting the troubling trend of youth becoming victims of violent crime in the community.

Local residents have expressed growing unease over the recurring violence in the area. Some community leaders have begun to call for increased patrols and preventative measures, including programs aimed at youth engagement and conflict resolution. There is also concern about the lack of witness cooperation, which can hinder investigations and allow perpetrators to evade accountability.

The Stockton Police Department is urging anyone with information related to Monday’s shooting to come forward and assist in the ongoing investigation. Homicide detectives continue to gather evidence, canvass the area, and interview potential witnesses. However, no arrests have been made, and details about what might have preceded the shooting are scarce.

The families of Hilliard and Perkins have not publicly spoken about their loss yet, but the impact of their deaths is undoubtedly being felt across their personal circles and the broader community. The tragedy underscores the urgent need to address the conditions that lead to such violence—whether they stem from personal disputes, gang affiliations, or broader systemic issues like poverty, lack of opportunity, or insufficient community resources.

Law enforcement officials have reaffirmed their commitment to investigating the case thoroughly and ensuring justice for the victims and their families. They are also working with other local and regional agencies to develop strategies aimed at reducing violent crime throughout the city.

The shooting of Hilliard and Perkins serves as another reminder of the fragility of life in neighborhoods plagued by gun violence. For residents of Stockton, particularly those living in areas that have seen repeated violence, each new tragedy adds to a mounting sense of fear and grief. Community leaders and activists continue to push for comprehensive reform that not only enhances public safety but also addresses the root causes of crime.

As the investigation continues, authorities remain hopeful that witnesses will come forward to help bring resolution to the families of the victims and contribute to efforts aimed at breaking the cycle of violence. The Stockton Police Department has made it clear that any information—no matter how small—could be critical in moving the case forward.

In the meantime, the city mourns the loss of two more young lives, with many reflecting on what can be done to prevent future tragedies and ensure that all neighborhoods in Stockton are safe for residents of all ages.