Law enforcement in Sacramento are examining a violent incident that broke out Saturday evening at Howe Community Park while deputies were dissolving a large unauthorized gathering of multiple hundreds of people.
Before the Gunfire
Deputies were first dispatched to Howe Community Park at about 6:30 in the evening after obtaining information of subjects reportedly carrying hidden weapons. Not long after, a second caller reported describing a possible fight happening near the park.
A sheriff's airship scanned the area from the air but could not confirm any ongoing fight. Despite this, it was apparent that a massive group had congregated at Howe Park without any permit or approval.
The Dispersal and Shooting
Sacramento County Sheriff's deputies began the process of clearing the park by positioning themselves around the crowd and broadcasting over loudspeakers commanding the hundreds present to leave immediately. About 15 minutes were allowed for the crowd to leave.
At the height of the dispersal effort that upwards of 20 gunshots echoed through the night. The barrage of gunfire sparked chaos as hundreds ran. Law enforcement at once began looking for those injured.
Those Who Were Hit
Altogether, four shooting victims were discovered with shooting injuries. All four — comprising three men and one woman all reportedly in their 20s at the time of the incident — were brought to nearby hospitals. Hospital staff indicated that two victims sustained immediate injuries, one victim's injuries were classified as moderate, and one person's injuries were considered minor. As of last report, all four victims survived and were stable.
Metro Fire Sacramento were called to the scene and provided medical assistance those with gunshot wounds prior to hospital transport.
Physical Evidence
The main crime scene seemed to have happened near the Cottage Way corridor alongside the local Home Depot located at the 2200 Howe Avenue block. Crime scene investigators identified additional shell casings on Cottage Way. Bullet holes were discovered in the wrought iron perimeter fencing bordering the Home Depot. This evidence suggested that a second shooter had been sending rounds south from the Cottage Way area in the direction of the Home Depot store. The Home Depot was placed on lockdown during the incident. Forensic investigators and law enforcement detectives worked tirelessly for hours.
Detainees in Solano County
Reports confirmed over police scanner frequencies showed that a Kia connected to the shooting had been stopped in nearby Solano County. Four suspects were stopped and detained. Sheriff's read more units were heading to pick up the four detainees to collect the individuals for investigation. Surveillance footage made clear that two separate shooters participated in the incident.