Sacramento authorities are investigating a gun violence incident that unfolded on April 18 2026 at Howe Community Park while Sacramento County Sheriff's deputies were clearing an unauthorized event of several hundred people.
What Led to the Shooting
Sacramento County Sheriff's deputies were first dispatched to the Arden-Arcade park at about 6:30 Saturday evening after getting calls of subjects reportedly carrying hidden weapons. Shortly after, a second call came in regarding a possible fight unfolding inside the park.
A sheriff's airship scanned the area from the air but could not confirm any ongoing fight. Nevertheless, authorities discovered that an enormous crowd had assembled at the park without any permit or approval.
The Moment Gunfire Erupted
Officers started clearing the unauthorized gathering by surrounding the park and making announcements ordering those gathered to vacate the area. Approximately 15 minutes were given for attendees to disperse.
As the crowd was being cleared that an estimated 20 to 25 shots were discharged. The barrage of gunfire triggered a stampede. Deputies at once began finding those who had been shot.
Four People Shot
By the time the scene was secured, four victims were confirmed as gunshot victims. All four — consisting of one woman and three men all believed to be in their twenties — were taken to area medical facilities. Doctors and nurses noted that two were treated for serious injuries, one of the four had moderate gunshot wounds, and one had injuries classified as minor. As of last report, no fatalities were reported and all four were stable.
Sacramento Metro Fire were called to the scene and helped care for those with gunshot wounds at the park.
The Investigation
The main crime scene seemed to have happened on the Cottage Way side of the park near the Home Depot at the 2200 Howe Avenue block. Detectives discovered additional shell casings on Cottage Way. Projectile impacts were noted in the iron fence near the Home Depot store. This ballistic evidence suggested that at least one of the shooters had been aiming south from along Cottage Way toward the Home more info Depot store. That Home Depot location was put under lockdown as a precaution. CSI investigators and detectives worked tirelessly well into the night.
Detainees in Solano County
Reports confirmed via scanner audio revealed that a Kia was contacted by law enforcement in Solano County California. Four individuals were in the vehicle at the time of the stop. Sheriff's units were sent to retrieve the detainees to bring the suspects back for questioning. Surveillance footage showed that the shooting involved two separate gunmen.