Fresno mass shooting: Manhunt launched after four people killed at backyard football party

Ten people have been shot and four of them killed at a football game party in Fresno, California.

The suspects sneaked into a backyard filled with family and friends who were watching a football match and opened fire into the crowd around 6pm, Fresno Police Lieutenant Bill Dooley said.

Deputy Chief Michael Reid told local media a total of 10 people were shot, with three found dead in the backyard. A fourth victim died at the hospital.

Six others are expected to survive and are recovering at hospital.

“What we do know is that this was a gathering, a family and friend gathering in the backyard,” Lt Dooley said. “Everyone was watching football this evening when unknown suspects approached the residence, snuck into the backyard and opened fire.”

The suspects fled the scene and police were going door-to-door in search of witnesses and possible security camera footage that might help track them down.

Police said there was no immediate indication the victims knew the shooter or shooters.

“Our hearts go out to the families of the victims of this thing,” Mr Reed said. “This was senseless violence. We’re going to do everything we can to find out who the perpetrators were and bring them to justice.”

About 35 people were at the party when the shooting began, Mr Reid said.

“Thank God that no kids were hurt,” he added.

It was at least the second fatal gun attack on Sunday in southeast Fresno, the Fresno Bee reported. A man in his 20s was shot to death at a home in another part of the city.

Police have not said whether the shootings could be connected.