Officials in Sacramento County are probing a violent incident that erupted late Saturday at Howe Park in Sacramento while law enforcement were dispersing a large unsanctioned party of hundreds of attendees.
Background
Sacramento County law enforcement were first dispatched to Howe Park at about 6:30 in the evening after being notified of individuals possibly carrying concealed weapons. Shortly after, a second caller reported concerning a potential altercation happening at the location.
A sheriff's airship was sent to survey the area but reported no active disturbance. However, authorities discovered that a massive group had congregated at Howe Park without any permit or approval.
When the Shots Rang Out
Law enforcement personnel started clearing the unauthorized gathering by positioning themselves around the crowd and broadcasting over loudspeakers instructing the assembled crowd to disperse at once. Roughly 15 minutes were given for the crowd to leave.
At the height of the dispersal effort that upwards of 20 gunshots rang out. The sudden gunfire triggered a stampede. Law enforcement quickly moved to looking for those injured.
Those Who Were Hit
By the time the scene was secured, four individuals were confirmed as gunshot victims. The four individuals — consisting of one woman and three men each apparently in their 20s — were rushed to nearby hospitals. Medical teams reported that two were treated for serious injuries, one had moderate injuries, and one suffered minor injuries. Fortunately, each of the four victims was stable.
Sacramento Metro Fire provided support and helped triage shooting victims at the scene.
Crime Scene Evidence
The center of the incident was determined to have taken place on Cottage Way next to the Home Depot located at the 2200 Howe Avenue block. Investigators found extra shell casings throughout the Cottage Way get more info area. Bullet holes were identified in the iron fence bordering the Home Depot store. This evidence indicated that at least one shooter had been sending rounds south from along Cottage Way in the direction of the Home Depot building and parking lot. The store itself was temporarily locked down during the incident. Crime scene personnel continued working throughout the night.
Detainees in Solano County
Information obtained through scanner monitoring revealed that a Kia had been detained in the Solano County area. Four individuals were stopped and detained. Law enforcement units were en route to collect those detained to pick up those detained for further questioning. Video reviewed at the scene established that the shooting involved two separate gunmen.