Kalaxang Thao, 40, was killed on November 17, 2019, during a mass shooting at a backyard party in east central Fresno. The gathering of Hmong community members had come together to watch a football game when two gunmen entered the yard and opened fire. Thao was one of four men who died; three others killed were Xy Lee, Phia Vang, and Kou Xiong. Six additional people were wounded, some seriously enough to require hospitalization.

Investigators described the attack as targeted and linked it to a disturbance involving some men at the party a week earlier. Authorities suspected a gang-related motive and formed a gang task force. Six people were later arrested; they were described as claiming affiliation with the Mongolian Boys Society and were charged with multiple counts including homicide, attempted murder, and conspiracy. Weapons and cash were recovered during searches connected to the probe.

Thao was remembered as a humble, well-respected member of the community. If anyone at the party or in the neighborhood has information that could clarify what led up to the shooting, please share it with Fresno law enforcement.