Law enforcement in Sacramento are working a shooting incident that took place on the evening of April 18 at Howe Park while authorities were breaking up an unsanctioned gathering of an estimated several hundred individuals.
How It Started
Sacramento County Sheriff's deputies initially got calls about the park shortly before 6:30 PM after being notified of individuals who may have had concealed firearms. Shortly after, a follow-up call was made describing a possible fight unfolding at Howe Park.
Air support was sent to survey the area but was unable to locate the reported altercation. Regardless, it was evident that a massive group had packed into the park without official sanction.
The Moment Gunfire Erupted
Responding units set about removing people from the park by setting up around the park's perimeter and announcing over their public address systems commanding the hundreds present to disperse at once. Approximately 15 minutes were provided for the gathering to break up.
It was during this dispersal that an estimated 20 to 25 shots were fired. Gunfire sent the crowd running in all directions. Deputies quickly moved to identifying shooting victims.
The Shooting Victims
Ultimately, four gunshot victims were found to have been shot. The victims — made up of one woman and three men each reported to be in their twenties — were airlifted or driven to area medical facilities. Emergency physicians stated that two victims were in serious condition, one sustained moderate wounds, and one suffered minor injuries. Thankfully, all four were expected to survive.
The Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District also responded and assisted with medical triage shooting victims on location.
The Investigation
The main crime scene was determined to have occurred adjacent to Cottage Way close to the Home Depot store on the 2200 Howe Avenue block. Detectives found extra shell casings scattered along Cottage Way. Ballistic damage were identified in the wrought iron perimeter fencing surrounding the nearby Home Depot. These discoveries confirmed that at least one of the shooters had been sending rounds south from along Cottage Way targeting the Home Depot. The store itself was temporarily locked down as a precaution. Crime scene personnel remained on scene for hours.
Detainees in Solano County
Intelligence received over police scanner frequencies revealed that a vehicle identified as a Kia was pulled over in nearby Solano County. Four here occupants were taken into custody. Law enforcement units were heading to pick up the four detainees to pick up those detained for questioning. Video reviewed at the scene made clear that there were two gunmen.