Arden-Arcade, California – A chaotic chain of events involving a rollover crash, bystander assault, and gunfire sent three people to hospitals and led to the arrest of two adults and a teenager near a popular gym in the Arden-Arcade area on Thursday evening, according to authorities.
Incident Overview
The incident unfolded around 5:30 p.m. near a 24 Hour Fitness gym on Fulton Avenue near Hurley Way, drawing a large law enforcement and emergency response. What began as a reckless driving incident quickly escalated into violence, culminating in gunfire that struck a responding fire engine.
Officials described the situation as both a traffic collision and a violent criminal assault involving multiple suspects and victims.
Timeline of Events
According to the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were dispatched after reports of a rollover crash in the gym parking lot. The California Highway Patrol later confirmed that a vehicle carrying three suspects had been driving erratically and performing donuts before crashing into five parked cars.
The crash left one person critically injured at the scene.
Details From Police and Fire Officials
As deputies and firefighters responded, investigators say the suspects became aware that two bystanders were recording the aftermath on their cell phones. Authorities allege the suspects then assaulted one of the bystanders, successfully stealing his phone, while failing to take the second device.
Other witnesses reportedly intervened and helped detain one of the suspects. During that confrontation, officials say the situation turned more dangerous.
Surveillance footage released by the sheriff’s office shows an altercation followed by a 14-year-old suspect pulling out a handgun and firing multiple shots toward a victim who was already on the ground.
One of the individuals struck by gunfire was transported to a hospital in critical condition.
Fire Engine Struck by Gunfire
The Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District confirmed that one of its responding fire engines was hit by gunfire during the incident.
Metro Fire described the call as a “vehicle accident with a violent crime assault.”
Despite the engine being struck, officials said no firefighters were injured. Fire crews treated three victims at the scene before transporting them to area hospitals for further care.
Suspects and Charges
Authorities identified three suspects connected to the incident:
- Avieon Spencer, 35, was hospitalized after being detained by a K9 officer. He has since been medically cleared and booked into jail. Spencer faces robbery and delaying a peace officer charges. His bail was set at $50,000, and he is expected to appear in court on Monday.
- Antwon Pace, 25, was injured in the crash and remains hospitalized. Deputies say he will be booked into jail on outstanding warrants once he is medically cleared.
- A 14-year-old suspect was booked into juvenile hall. Officials say the teen faces charges of assault with a deadly weapon and assault on a firefighter with a firearm.
Key Facts at a Glance
- Time of incident: 5:30 p.m. Thursday
- Location: Fulton Avenue near Hurley Way, Arden-Arcade
- Crash details: Vehicle hit five parked cars
- Victims: Three treated, one shot victim in critical condition
- Fire response: Fire engine struck by gunfire, no injuries
- Suspects arrested: Two adults, one juvenile
Public Safety and Community Awareness
Law enforcement officials emphasized the danger posed by reckless driving, public altercations, and firearms in crowded commercial areas. Incidents like this, especially near gyms and shopping centers during peak evening hours, place bystanders and first responders at serious risk.
Authorities continue to remind the public to avoid intervening directly in volatile situations and to report suspicious activity promptly.
Investigation Status
The Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office said the incident remains under active investigation, and additional charges could be filed as detectives review video evidence and witness statements.
Conclusion
What began as dangerous driving escalated into a violent confrontation that left multiple people injured and emergency responders under fire. Officials say the case highlights the rapid and unpredictable nature of public violence and the risks faced by first responders.
If you were in the area or witnessed the incident, investigators encourage you to contact local authorities. Share your experiences in the comments below.
