Drive-by shooter kills two outside Fremont banquet hall

Lead: Two people were killed in a drive-by shooting outside the Royal Palace Banquet Hall on Stevenson Boulevard in Fremont late Friday night, Fremont police reported.

Nut Graf: The fatal attack, Fremont’s third and fourth homicides of 2025, has shaken the normally quiet suburb and prompted calls for witnesses to come forward as investigators race to uncover a motive and suspect.

Shooting unfolds at packed parking lot

• Officers were dispatched at 11:12 p.m. Friday after gunfire erupted in the banquet hall’s parking area.
• According to police, a vehicle pulled up to a group standing outside, and an occupant opened fire, striking multiple people.
• One victim died at the scene; another succumbed to injuries after being transported to a hospital.

Investigation and community response

Fremont Police Department detectives are canvassing for witnesses, reviewing surveillance footage from the Royal Palace Banquet Hall and nearby businesses, and have released radio traffic excerpts indicating approximately 100 people were inside the building when shots rang out. No suspect description or motive has been disclosed, and no arrests have been made as of Sunday morning.

Local residents and nearby business operators expressed shock, noting the rarity of such violence in the area. “It’s crazy to me. This area has always been very safe,” said one witness.

Historical context and call for tips

The Royal Palace Banquet Hall was previously the scene of disturbances during a 2017 wedding reception. Fremont police urged anyone with information to contact the department’s Investigations Unit at (510) 790-6900 or submit anonymous tips via text to 888-777, beginning messages with “Tip FremontPD”.

• Fremont Police Department statement