Officials in Sacramento County are examining a gunfire incident that broke out on the evening of April 18 at Howe Community Park as authorities were dispersing an unsanctioned gathering of several hundred people.
Prior to the Shooting
Law enforcement were first dispatched to the park just after 6:30 PM after receiving reports of subjects reportedly carrying hidden weapons. Not long after, a second caller reported describing a potential altercation unfolding at the location.
A law enforcement helicopter flew over the park but was unable to locate the reported altercation. Nevertheless, it was evident that a massive group had congregated at Howe Park without authorization.
How the Shooting Unfolded
Law enforcement personnel began the process of clearing the park by forming a perimeter and broadcasting over loudspeakers ordering those gathered to vacate the area. Around 15 minutes were provided for the gathering to break up.
While deputies worked to disperse the gathering that 20 to 25 rounds of ammunition cut through the air. Gunfire sent hundreds fleeing. Deputies wasted no time in locating gunshot victims.
The Shooting Victims
In total, four shooting victims were found to have been shot. All four — made up of one woman and three men all reportedly in their mid to late twenties — were taken to local Sacramento hospitals. Doctors and nurses confirmed that two were treated for serious injuries, one had moderate injuries, and one sustained minor gunshot wounds. In a positive development, all four victims survived and were stable.
Sacramento fire crews provided support and helped care for the injured at the scene.
Crime Scene Evidence
The main crime scene was confirmed to have unfolded along the Cottage Way side of the park adjacent to the local Home Depot situated at the 2200 block of Howe Avenue. Law enforcement investigators discovered additional shell casings throughout Home Depot Sacramento shooting the Cottage Way area. Ballistic damage were also found in the wrought iron perimeter fencing adjacent to the nearby Home Depot. These findings showed that a shooter had been sending rounds south from the Cottage Way area toward the Home Depot. The nearby Home Depot was locked down for a period of time. Forensic investigators and law enforcement detectives kept processing evidence late into the evening.
Suspect Vehicle Located
Reports confirmed through law enforcement radio communications confirmed that a Kia vehicle was pulled over in the Solano County area. Four occupants were detained. Sacramento law enforcement were traveling to Solano County to bring the suspects back for further questioning. Video evidence confirmed that two shooters had been involved.