Community support has been invaluable in fueling the investigation of Sacramento's April 3 mass shooting. It occurred in the area of 10th and K Streets, leaving six victims dead at the scene and another 12 victims injured to varying degrees, according to a press release from the Sacramento Police Department (SPD).
When police made an arrest on April 4 regarding the K Street shooting, it was based on an extensive police investigation that had significant help from the public.
"We want to thank the community for the overwhelming assistance that has been provided," SPD Chief Katherine Lester said.
In its latest press release, the SPD said there is evidence of at least five shooters and that the incident was an exchange of gang-related gunfire between two groups.
Among those arrested are Dandrae Martin, 26, who faces charges of assault with a firearm and illegal firearm possession, and Smiley Martin, 27, who will face charges of possession of a machine gun and possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, according to SPD. Dandrae was arrested on April 4 and booked at the Sacramento County Main Jail. His brother Smiley suffered serious injuries and was taken to an area hospital, where he remains under police guard.
A third man was charged late Monday with weapons possession, but this charge is not directly related to the shootings, the press release said.
In one of its statements, SPD detailed the efforts that went into responding to the scene and investigating the mass shooting. Upon arriving at the scene, officers worked to save the lives of multiple victims. At press time, no change has been reported in the conditions of the 12 surviving victims, who suffer from gunshot wounds ranging from minor to critical but stable, according to the press release.
During the investigation, SPD's SWAT team and detectives served search warrants at three area homes, recovering at least one handgun. Investigators worked through the night into the early hours of the morning on April 4. They recovered over 100 expended shell casings and discovered that gunfire had struck at least three buildings and three vehicles.
The community's overwhelming support was seen in the department's receipt of nearly 100 video and/or photo files through their community evidence portal, as of Wednesday, the police release noted.
"Our community's response to these horrible crimes demonstrates that Sacramento understands community safety is a shared responsibility," Lester said.
The investigation is ongoing, so the public is encouraged to come forward with information by calling 916-808-5471. They can also call Sacramento Valley Crime Stoppers at 916-443-HELP.