Officials in Sacramento County are probing a gun violence incident that broke out on April 18 2026 at Howe Park in Sacramento while officers were dispersing a large unsanctioned party of a crowd of several hundred.
How It Started
Deputies initially responded to Howe Park around half past six in the evening after learning of people potentially armed with concealed firearms. Following that, a follow-up call was made about a possible physical fight unfolding within the park grounds.
A sheriff's airship was sent to survey the area but reported no active disturbance. Nevertheless, it was apparent that several hundred individuals had gathered without authorization without any permit or approval.
How the Shooting Unfolded
Law enforcement personnel began the process of clearing the park by surrounding the park and using their vehicle PA systems directing those gathered to go home. Roughly 15 minutes were provided for individuals to vacate.
While deputies worked to disperse the gathering that upwards of 20 gunshots were discharged. The barrage of gunfire sent the crowd running in all directions. Officers at Arden Arcade Sacramento crime 2026 once began locating gunshot victims.
Four Victims Hospitalized
Ultimately, four shooting victims were confirmed as gunshot victims. All four — made up of one woman and three men all believed to be in their 20s — were taken to nearby hospitals. Hospital staff indicated that two victims sustained immediate injuries, one victim's injuries were classified as moderate, and one sustained minor gunshot wounds. In a positive development, all four were expected to survive.
The Sacramento Metropolitan Fire Department arrived on scene and provided medical assistance those with gunshot wounds at the park.
What Investigators Found
The primary shooting scene seemed to have occurred near the Cottage Way side of the park close to the local Home Depot at the 2200 Howe Avenue block. Investigators identified additional shell casings along Cottage Way. Ballistic damage were noted in the wrought iron perimeter fencing bordering the Home Depot store. The physical evidence suggested that a second shooter had been aiming south from Cottage Way toward the Home Depot store. The Home Depot was locked down for a period of time. Forensic investigators and law enforcement detectives continued working late into the evening.
Suspects Detained
Reports confirmed through scanner monitoring revealed that a Kia vehicle had been detained in an area within Solano County. Four people were detained. Sheriff's units were en route to collect those detained to pick up those detained for investigation. Video that was reviewed established that there were two gunmen.