Officials in Sacramento County are investigating a gun violence incident that took place Saturday night April 18 at Howe Community Park at the time officers were dispersing Howe Park Sacramento gunfire an unsanctioned gathering of hundreds of attendees.
Before the Gunfire
Sacramento County law enforcement initially got calls about the park on Howe Avenue just after 6:30 PM after getting calls of subjects reportedly carrying hidden weapons. After that, a follow-up call was made mentioning an alleged brawl unfolding at the location.
A sheriff's airship was sent to survey the area but was unable to locate the reported altercation. However, it became clear that an enormous crowd had packed into the park without authorization.
How the Shooting Unfolded
Deputies moved to clear the area by encircling the gathering and broadcasting over loudspeakers ordering attendees to go home. Approximately 15 minutes were allotted for people to comply.
It was during this dispersal that upwards of 20 gunshots echoed through the night. The rapid succession of shots triggered a stampede. Law enforcement swiftly started looking for those injured.
Four People Shot
Altogether, four shooting victims were found to have been shot. The four individuals — a group of one female and three male victims all reportedly in their mid to late twenties — were brought to area medical facilities. Emergency physicians stated that two victims sustained immediate injuries, one person had injuries of a moderate nature, and one suffered minor injuries. Fortunately, all four were expected to survive.
The Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District also responded and helped care for those who had been shot before they were taken to the hospital.
Crime Scene Evidence
The primary shooting scene was confirmed to have happened adjacent to Cottage Way close to the Home Depot at the 2200 block of Howe Avenue. Law enforcement investigators discovered more spent casings on Cottage Way. Projectile impacts were noted in the wrought iron perimeter fencing surrounding the Home Depot store. These discoveries indicated that a shooter had been sending rounds south from along Cottage Way in the direction of the Home Depot. The Home Depot was temporarily locked down during the incident. Crime scene technicians and detectives worked tirelessly late into the evening.
Suspect Information
Reports confirmed via scanner audio indicated that a suspect Kia was intercepted in the Solano County area. Four people were taken into custody. Law enforcement units were dispatched to Solano County to pick up those detained for investigation. Video evidence established that two individuals had fired weapons.