Law enforcement in Sacramento are investigating a shooting that broke out Saturday evening at Howe Community Park at the moment law enforcement were dissolving a large unauthorized gathering of a crowd of several hundred.
Before the Gunfire
Sacramento County law enforcement were first called to the park on Howe Avenue at about half past six in the evening after getting calls of individuals who may have had concealed firearms. Shortly after, a second more info caller reported concerning an alleged brawl occurring near the park.
Air support was sent to survey the area but reported no active disturbance. Despite this, it became clear that an enormous crowd had come together at the location without permission.
The Shooting Itself
Law enforcement personnel set about removing people from the park by forming a perimeter and using their vehicle PA systems directing the assembled crowd to clear out. Around 15 minutes were allotted for people to comply.
As the crowd was being cleared that an estimated 20 to 25 shots were fired. Gunfire sparked chaos as hundreds ran. Responding personnel immediately began locating gunshot victims.
Four People Shot
Ultimately, four gunshot victims were identified as having gunshot wounds. Those injured — made up of one woman and three men all reportedly in their early to late twenties — were taken to nearby hospitals. Medical teams confirmed that two victims were in serious condition, one victim's injuries were classified as moderate, and one person's injuries were considered minor. As of last report, all four victims survived and were stable.
Sacramento Metro Fire assisted at the location and provided medical assistance the injured at the scene.
The Investigation
The main crime scene seemed to have unfolded adjacent to the Cottage Way corridor near the Home Depot store at the 2200 block of Howe Ave. Law enforcement investigators identified extra shell casings along Cottage Way. Bullet holes were noted in the wrought iron fence alongside the Home Depot. The physical evidence confirmed that one of the gunmen had been discharging rounds toward the south from the Cottage Way area aimed at the Home Depot. The store itself was placed on lockdown while law enforcement worked the area. CSI units alongside detectives stayed at the location through the early morning hours.
Suspect Vehicle Located
Information obtained via scanner audio revealed that a vehicle identified as a Kia was intercepted in an area within Solano County. Four occupants were detained. Deputies were heading to pick up the four detainees to bring the suspects back for questioning. Video evidence revealed that two separate shooters participated in the incident.