Sacramento County deputies are examining a gun violence incident that broke out Saturday evening at the Howe Community Park area while deputies were shutting down an unsanctioned gathering of an estimated several hundred individuals.
What Led to the Shooting
Deputies were first called to Howe Community Park shortly before half past six in the evening after being notified of subjects reportedly carrying hidden weapons. Shortly after, another report was received describing a reported physical confrontation happening at the location.
Aerial units flew over the park but reported no active disturbance. Regardless, authorities discovered that an enormous crowd had packed into the park without official sanction.
When the Shots Rang Out
Responding units began the process of clearing the park by surrounding the park and announcing over their public address systems instructing the crowd to leave immediately. About 15 minutes were allotted for people to comply.
It was during this dispersal that 20 to 25 rounds of ammunition were discharged. The sudden gunfire triggered a stampede. Law enforcement swiftly started locating gunshot victims.
Four Gunshot Victims
When the dust settled, four people were found to have been shot. The more info shooting victims — a group of one female and three male victims each reported to be in their early to late twenties — were rushed to nearby hospitals. Medical personnel reported that two victims were in serious condition, one sustained moderate wounds, and one victim's wounds were minor. As of last report, no fatalities were reported and all four were stable.
Metro Fire Sacramento also responded and aided in treating those with gunshot wounds before they were taken to the hospital.
Evidence at the Scene
Most of the gunfire was confirmed to have occurred along Cottage Way adjacent to the local Home Depot situated at the 2200 Howe Avenue block. Investigators recovered additional shell casings on Cottage Way. Bullet damage were also found in the iron perimeter fence alongside the Home Depot. The physical evidence suggested that a second shooter had been sending rounds south from Cottage Way toward the Home Depot store. The Home Depot was placed on lockdown for a period of time. Crime scene technicians and detectives kept processing evidence late into the evening.
Arrests Made
Reports confirmed over scanner radio traffic revealed that a Kia connected to the shooting was pulled over in an area within Solano County. Four individuals were taken into custody. Sacramento law enforcement were sent to retrieve the detainees to bring the suspects back for questioning. Video reviewed at the scene made clear that there were two gunmen.