Two suspects are in custody following a tragic event at Seattle Center where two people were killed and several injured. This incident occurred during a mass shooting while the Bite of Seattle food festival was underway, as reported by Mayor Katie Wilson and local police.
“An act of horrific violence,” is how Wilson described the shooting. She added that the affected families are going through an unimaginable time. The community struggles to comprehend how an event meant for culture and joy turned deadly. “No one should have to fear being shot at public gatherings,” Wilson emphasized in her statement.
The shooting took place shortly after 6 p.m. when emergency services were promptly notified. Seattle Police urged the public to steer clear of the scene. Please avoid the area,
the police advised on X.
The Seattle Fire Department confirmed the deaths of two individuals at the site despite efforts to save lives. Three more people, among them a 2-year-old, were transferred to a hospital and are reportedly in stable condition. Another person was taken to the hospital in a serious state. A fifth victim had minor injuries but did not seek hospital treatment.
Wilson stated, “Our focus is supporting the grieving families, caring for the injured, and ensuring the public receives clear and accurate information.”
Eyewitness accounts paint a chaotic scene. Kayla Carris, 22, recounted people screaming and seeking cover at the Seattle Center Armory. “Everyone was just throwing stuff and running,” she told The Seattle Times.
Another witness, Todd Behrends, 59, described hearing multiple gunshots and seeing people fleeing, some even falling in the rush. He noticed a woman and a man on a stretcher amidst the chaos.
In response to the increased police activity following the incident, Harborview Medical Center went into lockdown. The Seattle Center Monorail ceased operations for the rest of the day.