Full Notification

On November 1, 2025, at about 12:27 a.m., deputies with the Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Office responded to the 100 block of A Street in Empire for a report of gunfire at a Halloween party. While enroute, dispatch confirmed there were multiple gunshot victims.

Upon arrival, deputies located two adult male victims and immediately began life-saving measures. Witnesses reported that during the party, they heard gunshots and people began running from the area. Deputies were unable to locate any suspects, and those responsible remain at large.

Due to the nature of the incident, the Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Office Major Crimes Unit (MCU) responded and took over the investigation.

Two victims were transported by ambulance to a local hospital, one remains in critical condition; unfortunately, the second victim, Juan Loaiza, a 32-year-old Hispanic male from Ceres, succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased at the hospital. A third victim self-transported to another hospital and is expected to make a full recovery.

At this time, no further information is being released as the investigation remains active.

Anyone with information related to this case is encouraged to contact Detective Wyatt at phone number (209) 525-7091 or submit an anonymous tip to Stanislaus Area Crime Stoppers at (866) 602-7463.