Lethal shooting near World Cup fan zone an isolated incident, say San Jose police

San Jose police are investigating a fatal drive-by shooting that killed one man and critically injured another near the city's main World Cup fan zone. The incident occurred late Sunday, with the deceased victim found about a block from the San Pedro Square fan zone and the second victim collapsing within the square.

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I want to make clear that, although this was an isolated incident and unrelated to any World Cup watch activities, we understand the importance of fans and visitors feeling safe when coming to downtown San Jose.

Authorities emphasized that the shooting was an isolated event and had no connection to the World Cup watch parties. "I want to make clear that, although this was an isolated incident and unrelated to any World Cup watch activities, we understand the importance of fans and visitors feeling safe when coming to downtown San Jose," said San Jose Police Department spokesperson Stacie Shih. She assured that police visibility would be increased in the area.

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The San Jose Police Department will be ensuring high visibility in and around the area. So, again, this is to make sure that our fans and visitors have a safe experience when they visit downtown San Jose.

The victims were San Jose residents walking together when a suspect in a car approached and opened fire before fleeing. The motive remains unclear. Mayor Matt Mahan condemned the crime's brazenness, particularly its proximity to public gathering spaces, but expressed gratitude that the fan zone's programming had concluded hours before the shooting. He affirmed the city's commitment to public safety and ensuring residents can enjoy public spaces without fear.

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This shooting happened near an area where families and fans have been gathering for our World Cup watch parties, and that makes the brazenness of this crime even more unacceptable.

The fan zone was open and operating on Monday, with fans watching a World Cup match on a large screen. Police had cordoned off the area following the incident, but it has since reopened.

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I am grateful that Sunday’s programming had ended hours earlier, and there is no indication this violence was connected to the event.