Law enforcement in Sacramento are probing a gunfire incident that unfolded Saturday night April 18 at Howe Park at the moment deputies were breaking up an unlawful assembly of several hundred people.
Before the Gunfire
Sacramento County Sheriff's deputies were first called to the park just after 6:30 PM after receiving reports of individuals possibly carrying concealed weapons. Following that, a follow-up call was made concerning an alleged brawl happening inside the park.
A sheriff's airship scanned the area from the air but could not confirm any ongoing fight. Nevertheless, it was evident that an enormous crowd had congregated at Howe Park without any permit or approval.
How the Shooting Unfolded
Sacramento County Sheriff's deputies set about removing people from the park by encircling the gathering and making announcements commanding the crowd to leave immediately. About 15 minutes were allowed for people to comply.
Just as the crowd began to move that an estimated 20 to 25 shots rang out. The shots sent the crowd running in all directions. Sacramento County Sheriff's deputies swiftly started finding those who had been shot.
Those Who Were Hit
When the dust settled, four individuals were identified as having gunshot wounds. Those injured — comprising three men and one woman ranging in age through their in their 20s at the time of the incident — were rushed to nearby hospitals. Doctors and nurses confirmed that two victims were in serious condition, one victim's injuries were classified as moderate, and one had injuries classified as minor. Fortunately, all four victims survived and were stable.
The Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District assisted at the location and helped care for those who had been shot at the park.
What Investigators Found
Most of the gunfire was determined to have unfolded near the Cottage Way corridor close to the Home Depot at the 2200 block of Howe Ave. Detectives discovered additional shell casings on Cottage Way. Round impacts were also found in the wrought iron perimeter fencing alongside the Home Depot. This evidence suggested that at least one of the shooters had been sending rounds south from the Cottage Way area aimed at the Home Depot store. The Home Depot was placed on lockdown during the incident. Forensic investigators and law enforcement detectives worked tirelessly late into the evening.
Arrests Made
Details gathered through law enforcement radio communications indicated that a vehicle identified as a Kia was Arden Arcade Sacramento crime 2026 contacted by law enforcement in nearby Solano County. Four occupants were taken into custody. Sacramento law enforcement were heading to pick up the four detainees to return them to Sacramento for questioning. Surveillance footage showed that two shooters had been involved.