Antonio Monroe, a soon-to-be graduate, died after the shooting Saturday night, according to officials.
Lemoore Union High School District Superintendent Miguel Guerrero said Monroe had been set to graduate this week, leaving classmates to walk the stage without him.
"It's a big loss for us. Obviously, you never want to lose anybody, and during graduation time, it makes it even harder to try to cope with it and deal with it in the sense of we should be celebrating rather than, you know, grieving," Guerrero said.
Visalia police said the shooting occurred around 10 p.m. in the backyard of a home. Several people were struck by gunfire.
One female victim was transported to the hospital by ambulance, while two others took themselves for treatment.
All three are Visalia Unified School students and are expected to recover.
Monroe died from multiple gunshot wounds at Kaweah Health.
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Guerrero expressed shock following the incident and extended condolences to the victim's family.
"I'm shocked by the news and what transpired on Saturday evening. Our prayers go out. and support go out to their family," he said.
A neighbor who asked not to be identified said she has lived in the area for 40 years and described hearing multiple gunshots before witnessing the aftermath from her window.
"It's hard to describe. It's just very, very sad. These young lives are being ruined and they don't even know it," the neighbor said.
The Visalia Police Department is continuing to investigate what led up to the shooting and is urging the public to come forward with any information.
As graduation celebrations continue across the region, police also offered a reminder about party safety.
"With graduation season being here and graduation week being here, we want to remind everyone to be mindful of who you invite to your parties. Make sure you do not post it on social media; it may cause uninvited guests and may cause problems," said Liz Jones of the Visalia Police Department.
Authorities said they are relying on witnesses to help bring justice for Monroe's family and noted that tips can be provided anonymously.
Antonio's family has also set up a GoFundMe Page to help with funeral expenses.
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