Story perspectives

Today in History: Stockton school shooting leaves 5 dead, 32 injured

1/17/2026

50 6

Summary

Story summary

On January 17, 1989, Patrick Purdy opened fire at Cleveland Elementary School in Stockton, California, killing five children and injuring thirty-one others. The tragic incident, one of the deadliest school shootings in U.S. history, ended when Purdy took his own life shortly after the attack.

1 of 1

Story summary

On January 17, 1989, Patrick Purdy opened fire at Cleveland Elementary School in Stockton, California, killing five children and injuring thirty-one others. The tragic incident, one of the deadliest school shootings in U.S. history, ended when Purdy took his own life shortly after the attack.