Sacramento County deputies are examining a shooting incident that broke out Saturday evening at Howe Park while law enforcement were shutting down a large unsanctioned party of multiple hundreds of people.
What Led to the Shooting
Law enforcement first arrived at the park on Howe Avenue at approximately half past six in the evening after learning of people potentially armed with concealed firearms. Following that, additional information came in concerning a possible fight breaking out inside the park.
Aerial units conducted an aerial sweep but reported no active disturbance. Even so, authorities discovered that a massive group had packed into the park without authorization.
The Moment Gunfire Erupted
Law enforcement personnel worked to disperse the crowd by setting up around the park's perimeter and making announcements telling those gathered to clear out. About 15 minutes were provided for the gathering to break up.
Just as the crowd began to move that 20 to 25 gunshots were discharged. The barrage of gunfire caused mass panic. Deputies immediately began searching for victims.
Those Who Were Hit
In total, four gunshot victims were identified as having gunshot wounds. The shooting victims — including a female and three males ranging in age through their in their twenties — were airlifted or driven to Sacramento area hospitals. Hospital staff noted that two were treated for serious injuries, one had moderate injuries, and one suffered minor injuries. As of last report, all four victims survived and were stable.
Sacramento fire crews also responded and helped triage the four victims at the park.
The Investigation
The center of the incident appears to have unfolded near the Cottage Way Sacramento County Sheriff shooting investigation corridor alongside the Home Depot located at the 2200 Howe Avenue block. Crime scene investigators located additional shell casings on the Cottage Way roadway. Projectile impacts were discovered in the iron fence alongside the Home Depot. The physical evidence confirmed that at least one shooter had been shooting in a southerly direction from along Cottage Way in the direction of the Home Depot building and parking lot. The Home Depot was temporarily locked down as a precaution. Forensic investigators and law enforcement detectives continued working through the early morning hours.
Suspect Information
Reports confirmed via scanner audio showed that a vehicle identified as a Kia was intercepted in nearby Solano County. Four individuals were taken into custody. Sheriff's units were sent to retrieve the detainees to return them to Sacramento for formal questioning. Video reviewed at the scene made clear that two individuals had fired weapons.