Three People Shot at Community Park in Davis; Suspect Identified as 44-Year-Old Alex Potts
Davis, CA – April 12, 2025
A peaceful Saturday afternoon at Community Park in Davis, California was shattered by gunfire, leaving three people wounded and the community reeling in the wake of the violence. According to the Davis Police Department (DPD), the incident occurred on East 14th Street, not far from the bustling UC Davis campus, as families and students gathered for the university’s annual Picnic Day celebrations.
Authorities have now identified the suspect as 44-year-old Alex Potts, who is currently wanted in connection with the shooting. As of the latest updates, Potts remains at large, and a manhunt is actively underway with a heavy law enforcement presence across Davis and surrounding areas.
The Incident
At approximately 2:45 PM, multiple 911 calls were made reporting gunshots near Community Park, a popular location frequented by families, joggers, and local sports teams. Responding officers arrived swiftly and discovered three victims—all suffering from gunshot wounds. Emergency medical responders treated the victims on scene before transporting them to local hospitals.
The extent of their injuries has not yet been released publicly, and their names are being withheld pending notification of families. Authorities have confirmed that all three victims are expected to survive, but the trauma inflicted has deeply shaken those who witnessed the incident.
The park, usually a hub of activity on weekends, quickly transformed into a crime scene, with yellow police tape cordoning off playgrounds and picnic areas. Panicked bystanders fled in all directions as officers established a perimeter and began the search for the shooter.
Suspect Identified: Alex Potts
Through swift investigative work and the cooperation of eyewitnesses, surveillance footage, and initial forensic evidence, police were able to identify the suspect as Alex Potts, a 44-year-old man with known ties to the Davis area. At this time, investigators are working to determine whether Potts had a connection to the victims, or if the shooting was a random act of violence.
Authorities have not confirmed a motive, but they are pursuing leads related to domestic conflict, mental health history, and prior legal issues involving Potts. His last known residence has been searched, but he was not found at the location.
Potts is considered armed and dangerous, and the public is urged not to approach him. A warrant for his arrest has been issued, and his photo and description have been distributed to media outlets and community watch groups.
Ongoing Investigation and Police Response
The Davis Police Department, with assistance from nearby agencies and federal partners, has launched a full-scale manhunt for Potts. Officers are searching areas around East 14th Street, as well as broader regions of Yolo County, and are monitoring transportation hubs in case Potts attempts to flee the area.
Chief of Police Darren Pytel addressed the public in a press conference late Saturday afternoon, stating:
“This is a serious and deeply disturbing act of violence, particularly during a day when so many families and students were out enjoying our community. We will not rest until Alex Potts is located and held accountable for his actions.”
Detectives are working to interview additional witnesses, examine evidence from the scene, and gather information from nearby residents. Anyone who may have seen Potts or has information about his whereabouts is urged to contact the Davis Police tip line at (530) 747-5400 or call 911 immediately.
Community Reaction and Impact
The shooting occurred in the same vicinity as UC Davis’s Picnic Day, an event known for bringing thousands of people to the city. While Picnic Day is not officially connected to the park, the timing and proximity of the violence have cast a dark cloud over the weekend’s festivities. Many events were briefly suspended or rerouted to ensure public safety.
The Davis community is now coming together to support the victims and their families. Local churches, counseling services, and city officials are offering mental health resources and trauma support for those affected.
Residents have expressed shock and sorrow at the incident, with many saying they never expected such violence in their usually tranquil city.
“Davis is a quiet, close-knit place,” said local resident Hannah Reed, who was walking her dog near the park when the shooting occurred. “To think that this could happen in broad daylight while children were playing nearby—it’s just heartbreaking.”
Safety Measures and Public Response
In response to the incident, Davis Police have increased patrols in key areas around the city, particularly around parks, schools, and university properties. UC Davis has also enhanced security for the remainder of Picnic Day activities, and university officials are working closely with police to monitor the situation.
Mayor Will Arnold issued a statement expressing solidarity with the victims and gratitude for the swift response of first responders.
“Our hearts are with the victims and their families. We are a resilient community, and we will stand together as we seek justice and ensure safety for all.”
Conclusion and Next Steps
As the investigation continues, the community of Davis is encouraged to remain vigilant and report any information related to Alex Potts to local law enforcement. The situation is developing, and updates will be provided as more details emerge about the suspect’s whereabouts, the victims’ conditions, and the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
This incident serves as a sobering reminder of the unpredictability of violence and the importance of community awareness, preparedness, and compassion in the face of tragedy.
Stay tuned to local news outlets and official Davis Police Department channels for the latest updates on this developing story.