Fairfield, CA – An 18-year-old individual was fatally shot, and three others, aged 11, 20, and 25, sustained injuries during a graduation ceremony for Sem Yeto High School held at the Fairfield High campus. The tragic incident, which disrupted a celebratory event, was confirmed by the Fairfield Police Department. As reported by Henry K. Lee, the @FairfieldPolice stated, "> Victim, 18, killed, 3 others, ages 11, 20, and 25, wounded in shooting at graduation ceremony for Sem Yeto High at Fairfield High campus."
The deceased victim was identified as Marcelino Cornejo, 18, of Fairfield, who was reportedly a graduating student from Sem Yeto High. The three injured individuals were transported to local hospitals, with authorities indicating they suffered non-fatal gunshot wounds and are expected to recover. The sudden violence caused widespread panic among the approximately 1,000 attendees, turning a moment of joy into a scene of chaos.
Fairfield Police responded to reports of gunfire around 7:15 p.m. in the parking lot of Fairfield High School's Schafer Stadium. As of recent updates, no arrests have been publicly announced, and authorities continue to investigate the incident, interviewing hundreds of potential witnesses. The police department has not yet identified a suspect or determined a clear motive for the shooting.
Sem Yeto High School, an alternative education program, was utilizing the Fairfield High School campus for its commencement ceremony. School officials and district representatives expressed profound sorrow, offering counseling services to students, staff, and families impacted by the trauma. In response to the tragedy, Fairfield High School's upcoming graduation ceremony was relocated to Armijo High School Stadium.
The Fairfield community has reacted with grief and outrage, leading to calls for increased safety measures at public gatherings and school events. Fairfield Mayor Catherine Moy stated, "My heart is breaking for the students and families involved. I'm shaken to my soul. The shooter will face justice." Suisun City Mayor Alma Hernandez also expressed condolences, emphasizing the need for unity against violence.
