Officials in Sacramento County are examining a shooting incident that unfolded Saturday evening at Howe Park as deputies were dispersing an unsanctioned gathering of hundreds of attendees.
Background
Deputies initially responded to the Arden-Arcade park at about 6:30 PM on April 18 after obtaining information of persons possibly in possession of concealed weapons. Not long after, a second call came in about a reported physical confrontation taking place inside the park.
A sheriff's airship was sent to survey the area but came back with no confirmation of a fight. However, it became clear that hundreds of people had congregated at Howe Park without authorization.
How the Shooting Unfolded
Responding units set about removing people from the park by forming a perimeter and using their vehicle PA systems commanding the assembled crowd to leave immediately. Around 15 minutes were spent for the crowd to leave.
It was during this dispersal that 20 to 25 rounds of ammunition echoed through the night. The rapid succession of shots sent the crowd running in all directions. Officers immediately began looking for those injured.
Those Who Were Hit
In total, four people were discovered with shooting injuries. Those injured — consisting of one woman and three men all reportedly in Howe Park Sacramento gunfire their 20s — were rushed to hospitals in the Sacramento area. Medical personnel indicated that two were treated for serious injuries, one had moderate injuries, and one victim's wounds were minor. As of last report, all four were in stable condition.
The Sacramento Metropolitan Fire Department also responded and aided in treating the four victims before they were taken to the hospital.
What Investigators Found
The main crime scene was determined to have taken place near Cottage Way close to the local Home Depot located at the 2200 Howe Avenue block. Investigators found additional spent rounds on the Cottage Way roadway. Projectile impacts were observed in the iron perimeter fence alongside the nearby Home Depot. This evidence confirmed that a shooter had been discharging rounds toward the south from Cottage Way in the direction of the Home Depot. The Home Depot was put under lockdown as a precaution. Forensic investigators and law enforcement detectives stayed at the location for hours.
Suspect Information
Reports confirmed via scanner audio established that a suspect Kia was contacted by law enforcement in the Solano County area. Four suspects were taken into custody. Law enforcement units were traveling to Solano County to bring the suspects back for processing in Sacramento County. Video that was reviewed established that two shooters had been involved.