Sacramento authorities are examining a gunfire incident that broke out Saturday evening at Howe Park at the time law enforcement were clearing a large unauthorized gathering of multiple hundreds of people.
What Led to the Shooting
Law enforcement were first called to Howe Community Park shortly before half past six in the evening after being notified of subjects reportedly carrying hidden weapons. Following that, another report was received regarding a reported physical confrontation breaking out at Howe Park.
Aerial units flew over the park but found nothing to substantiate the fight report. However, it became clear that several hundred individuals had come together at the location without official sanction.
The Shooting Itself
Deputies worked to disperse the crowd by encircling click here the gathering and making announcements ordering those gathered to go home. Roughly 15 minutes were provided for attendees to disperse.
It was during this dispersal that 20 to 25 rounds of ammunition rang out. The rapid succession of shots sent the crowd running in all directions. Law enforcement wasted no time in locating gunshot victims.
Four People Shot
Ultimately, four people were confirmed as gunshot victims. All four — including a female and three males all believed to be in their twenties — were taken to local Sacramento hospitals. Emergency physicians confirmed that two victims were in serious condition, one person had injuries of a moderate nature, and one suffered minor injuries. In a positive development, all four were expected to survive.
Metro Fire Sacramento assisted at the location and aided in treating those with gunshot wounds on location.
What Investigators Found
The main crime scene was believed to have taken place adjacent to the Cottage Way side of the park near the Home Depot store at the 2200 Howe Avenue block. Crime scene investigators located additional spent rounds scattered along Cottage Way. Projectile impacts were observed in the iron perimeter fence adjacent to the Home Depot. The physical evidence indicated that a second shooter had been aiming south from Cottage Way toward the Home Depot building and parking lot. The nearby Home Depot was locked down for a period of time. Forensic investigators and law enforcement detectives remained on scene late into the evening.
Detainees in Solano County
Details gathered through law enforcement radio communications confirmed that a vehicle identified as a Kia had been detained in Solano County. Four individuals were in the vehicle at the time of the stop. Sheriff's units were traveling to Solano County to transport the detainees for formal questioning. Video reviewed at the scene showed that there were two gunmen.