Derek Von Harris Jr. dies in fatal Sacramento shooting
Fatal Sacramento shooting death of Derek Von Harris Jr.
Derek Von Harris Jr., a 41-year-old man, died as a result of being shot early one morning near an alleyway in Sacramento. The Sacramento County Coroner’s Office confirmed Harris passed away on August 10 following the incident, which occurred around 2 a.m. near Blues Alley and 12th Street.
Sacramento police officers discovered Harris after responding to a report of an individual down on the street. According to the police department’s spokesperson, Officer Allison Smith, officers found the victim with multiple gunshot injuries. Despite life-saving attempts by emergency responders, Harris was pronounced dead at the scene.
Records from court, jail, and public files identified Harris as having been convicted of a felony arson charge. His conviction, related to intentionally setting fire to property, was handed down on June 3. According to the Sacramento Fire Department, Harris was responsible for igniting a city-owned tent and his own clothing on the evening of March 1. This fire occurred around 9:15 p.m. and caused damage to a gas line located at 1515 North C Street.
A fire official, Captain Justin Sylvia, stated in a communication that the motive for Harris’s arson act was unclear, but he appeared to be experiencing significant mental health difficulties at the time. Fire personnel involved in the incident investigation mentioned they questioned witnesses and arrested Harris.
Harris’s death is currently being treated as a homicide under investigation by the Sacramento Police Department. As of Tuesday afternoon, no arrests had been made in connection with his death. The police are asking anyone with potential information about the shooting incident or Harris’s activities to contact their dispatch center at 916-808-5471 or the Sacramento Valley Crime Stoppers at 916-443-4357. Individuals providing tips remain confidential and can also submit reports through the P3 Tips smartphone application.
