Sacramento County deputies are looking into a gunfire incident that unfolded Saturday night April 18 at Howe Community Park in the Arden-Arcade area while Sacramento County Sheriff's deputies were dispersing a large unauthorized gathering of several hundred people.
What Led to the Shooting
Law enforcement were first called to Howe Park shortly before half past six in the evening after being notified of subjects reportedly carrying hidden weapons. Shortly after, a second caller reported concerning a possible physical fight breaking out within the park grounds.
An overhead unit flew over the park but could not confirm any ongoing fight. Regardless, it became clear that hundreds of people had packed into the park without any permit or approval.
How the Shooting Unfolded
Responding units began the process of clearing the park by positioning themselves around the crowd and making announcements directing attendees to disperse at once. Nearly 15 minutes were provided for the gathering to break up.
It was during this dispersal that 20 to 25 rounds of ammunition rang out. The barrage of gunfire sent hundreds fleeing. Law enforcement wasted no time in identifying shooting victims.
Four Gunshot Victims
Altogether, four individuals were confirmed as gunshot victims. The four individuals — including a female and three males ranging in age through their in their mid to late twenties — were airlifted or driven to area medical facilities. Medical personnel stated that two were treated for serious injuries, one sustained moderate wounds, and Home Depot Sacramento shooting one victim's wounds were minor. Fortunately, all four victims survived and were stable.
Sacramento Metro Fire assisted at the location and helped care for those with gunshot wounds prior to hospital transport.
Crime Scene Evidence
Most of the gunfire appears to have taken place on the Cottage Way corridor near the local Home Depot situated at the 2200 block of Howe Ave. Investigators identified more spent casings along Cottage Way. Ballistic damage were observed in the iron perimeter fence surrounding the nearby Home Depot. This evidence confirmed that a shooter had been aiming south from the Cottage Way area toward the Home Depot store. The store itself was placed on lockdown while law enforcement worked the area. CSI investigators and detectives continued working throughout the night.
Detainees in Solano County
Information relayed over police scanner frequencies revealed that a suspect Kia was pulled over in an area within Solano County. Four suspects were taken into custody. Sacramento County Sheriff's deputies were sent to retrieve the detainees to transport the detainees for questioning. Footage analyzed by investigators showed that two shooters had been involved.