Sacramento authorities are looking into a violent incident that occurred on April 18 2026 at Howe Community Park just as authorities were dispersing an unsanctioned 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 6:30 Saturday evening after being notified of subjects reportedly carrying hidden weapons. Not long after, a second call came in mentioning an alleged brawl happening near the park.
A sheriff's airship searched from above but reported no active disturbance. Regardless, authorities discovered that a massive group had congregated at Howe Park without authorization.
How the Shooting Unfolded
Sacramento County Sheriff's deputies worked to disperse the crowd by setting up around the park's perimeter and announcing over their public address systems directing the assembled crowd to leave immediately. Nearly 15 minutes were spent for the crowd to leave.
It was during this dispersal that an estimated 20 to 25 shots cut through the air. The barrage of gunfire triggered a stampede. Deputies wasted no time in looking for those injured.
The Shooting Victims
Ultimately, four gunshot victims were confirmed as gunshot victims. The victims — a group of one female and three male victims ranging in age through their in their mid to late twenties — were brought to nearby hospitals. Hospital staff stated that two were treated for serious injuries, one had moderate injuries, and one person's injuries were considered minor. As of last report, each of the four victims was stable.
Sacramento fire crews were called to the scene and helped triage those with gunshot wounds at the park.
Physical Evidence
Most of the gunfire was determined to have happened on Cottage Way close to the local Home Depot located at the 2200 block of Howe Ave. Detectives identified additional spent rounds along Cottage Way. Round impacts were identified in the wrought iron perimeter fencing bordering the Home Depot store. The physical evidence pointed to that a shooter had been sending rounds south from Cottage Way toward the Home Depot store. The Home Depot was locked down as a precaution. Forensic investigators and law enforcement detectives worked tirelessly for hours.
Suspect Vehicle Located
Information obtained via scanner audio showed that a vehicle identified as a Kia was pulled over in Solano more info County. Four occupants were detained. Sacramento County Sheriff's deputies were en route to collect those detained to transport the detainees for investigation. Video evidence made clear that two individuals had fired weapons.