Three Wounded in Shooting at Davis Community Park During UC Davis Picnic Day; Suspect Identified as 44-Year-Old Alex Potts, Motive Under Investigation
Davis, California — What began as a joyful afternoon of community bonding and university celebration quickly turned to chaos and horror when gunfire erupted at Community Park in Davis on Saturday, leaving three people wounded and hundreds of residents and UC Davis students in a state of fear and confusion.
The incident occurred shortly after 3:00 p.m. on April 12, 2025, in the 1400 block of East 14th Street, just steps away from the University of California, Davis campus. The park was filled with people attending Picnic Day, an annual event that draws large crowds for parades, performances, and family-friendly activities. The peaceful scene was shattered when shots rang out in an area where several vendors and campus-affiliated groups had gathered.
According to the Davis Police Department, the suspect—identified as 44-year-old Alex Potts—allegedly approached a group and opened fire with a handgun before attempting to flee the scene. Officers responded swiftly and were able to apprehend Potts a short distance from the park following a brief foot pursuit. A firearm believed to be used in the shooting was recovered at the scene.
The victims—two men and one woman—sustained gunshot wounds of varying severity. All three were transported to local hospitals. As of Sunday morning, two of the victims remain hospitalized, while one has been treated and released. Police have not yet disclosed the identities of the victims, pending notification of their families.
Authorities are still investigating a possible motive behind the shooting. Initial statements from law enforcement suggest that Potts had no known connection to the victims, and investigators are exploring whether the attack was random or targeted. Witnesses at the scene described a moment of panic, with parents rushing to shield children and event organizers scrambling to secure the area.
“We are deeply saddened by the violence that disrupted a day meant to bring our community together,” said Davis Police Chief Darren Pytel. “Thanks to the swift response of our officers and the cooperation of witnesses, the suspect was taken into custody quickly. But our work is far from over as we seek to understand what led to this senseless act.”
UC Davis officials issued a statement expressing shock and solidarity with the victims. “Picnic Day has always been a cherished tradition that highlights the best of our campus and community,” said Chancellor Gary S. May. “Our thoughts are with those injured, and we will continue to work with local authorities to ensure the safety of our students and residents.”
Potts is currently being held at the Yolo County Jail and faces multiple charges, including attempted murder, unlawful possession of a firearm, and assault with a deadly weapon. Prosecutors are expected to file formal charges early next week.
Anyone who witnessed the shooting or has video footage is urged to contact the Davis Police Department at (530) 747-5400.
The investigation is ongoing. More updates will be provided as additional details become available.