(This article was updated on Oct. 2 to correct an error in an earlier version)
An early morning shooting in south Sacramento on Sept. 23 that resulted in the death of two men occurred across the street from a house party thrown by an American River College football player.
Dijon Augustine Smith, 19, was pronounced dead at the scene, according to a police statement. The second victim, a 39-year-old male, died Sept. 28, according to a report from the Sacramento County Coroner’s Office.
Byrd declined further comment, but stated that the 39-year-old victim was his uncle Oscar Harris, who was taken to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries on Sept. 23.
In addition, Byrd described Smith as a close friend.
The party took place at Byrd’s home in the 7600 block of Daya Way in Sacramento. Attendees, including several ARC football players and other students, were celebrating Byrd’s 19th birthday, according to ARC Athletic Director Greg Warzecka.
Warzecka said that his program is in compliance with the sheriff’s department, but declined to comment further on the incident.
According to Sacramento County Sheriff’s spokesperson Jason Ramos, the shooting occurred across the street from Byrd’s home. Smith’s body was found around 200 feet away from the house, near the 7600 block of Countryfield Drive.
Several people were outside tending to the victims when the authorities arrived, and dozens of partygoers were detained and questioned, according to a press release from the sheriff’s department, which also stated that no motive has been determined and no suspect(s) have been identified.
“We don’t know of the relation between the (victims),” Ramos said. “There is no information on suspects or vehicle information. Hopefully there will be after things calm down.”
The party began on the evening of Sept. 22 after the ARC football team beat Santa Rosa Junior College 42-28. In the game, Byrd intercepted a ball and returned it for a touchdown with just over a minute left, helping the Beavers remain undefeated at 4-0 this season.
ARC has won 22 consecutive games dating back to 2010.
Head coach Jerry Haflich said he declined to comment until further information becomes available.
Anyone with information about the shooting can call the sheriff’s homicide bureau at (916) 874-5115, Crime Alert at (916) 443-HELP or send a text message to 274637 (CRIMES).
Callers can remain anonymous and may receive a reward of up to $1000.
