Published: June 29, 2026 | Updated: June 29, 2026
SAN JOSE, Calif. — Authorities continue to investigate the fatal shooting that occurred near San Pedro Square Market on Sunday night, an incident that left one man dead and another critically injured just blocks from an official 2026 FIFA World Cup Fan Zone.
Police have emphasized that the shooting was not related to the World Cup, but the location and timing of the attack drew widespread attention because thousands of soccer fans had gathered in the area earlier in the day.
Earlier in the Day
Throughout Sunday, downtown San Jose welcomed large crowds for official FIFA World Cup fan activities at San Pedro Square. Fans gathered to watch Round of 32 matches on a giant outdoor screen before restaurants, bars, and nearby businesses gradually returned to normal evening operations after the scheduled programming ended.
Around 10:30 p.m.
According to the San Jose Police Department, officers were dispatched after multiple reports of gunfire near North Market Street, adjacent to San Pedro Square Market.
Investigators believe two adult men were walking together when a suspect approached in a vehicle and opened fire before fleeing the scene.
Two Victims Found
Police said one victim was shot outside a nearby ramen restaurant. He collapsed a short distance away and was pronounced dead at the scene.
The second victim managed to reach San Pedro Square before collapsing. Emergency medical personnel treated him at the location before transporting him to a hospital with life-threatening injuries. Authorities later said he was expected to survive.
Area Secured
Following the shooting, officers quickly secured the surrounding streets while investigators processed the crime scene.
Security personnel cleared portions of San Pedro Square, and access to some areas near the fan zone was temporarily restricted as detectives collected evidence and interviewed witnesses.
Police Rule Out World Cup Connection
By Monday morning, investigators said they had found no indication that the shooting was connected to the FIFA World Cup or any fan event.
Mayor Matt Mahan described the violence as an isolated criminal act and said the city's World Cup operations would continue with enhanced security measures.
Fan Zone Reopens
Despite the overnight violence, San Pedro Square reopened the following day for scheduled World Cup programming.
Police officers and private security personnel maintained a visible presence throughout the area while fans returned to watch additional tournament matches. Officials said the increased security was intended to reassure visitors while detectives continued the homicide investigation.
Investigation Continues
Authorities have not announced any arrests or identified a suspect. Police also have not disclosed a possible motive.
Investigators are asking anyone who witnessed the shooting or has information that could assist the investigation to contact the San Jose Police Department.
The homicide investigation remains active.
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Read First: 1 Dead, Another Critically Injured in Shooting Near 2026 FIFA World Cup Fan Zone in San Jose