Seattle Center Shooting: Police Detain Teen Suspect Amid Ongoing Search
A 15-year-old was detained by police following a mass shooting at Seattle Center that resulted in three deaths and four injuries. Authorities continue searching for a second suspect. Seattle’s Mayor Katie Wilson stated the teenager is suspected of opening fire, though investigations are ongoing. The teen faces no homicide charges yet but was held in juvenile detention for firearms violations and first-degree assault. An initial court appearance is expected.
According to Seattle Police Department Chief Shon Barnes, crossfire between two individuals outside the Seattle Center Armory led to bystander casualties. Police advised the public to stay clear of the area. Investigations suggest the altercation involved two conflicting groups.
The gunman hunt continues, with the possibility one of the deceased was another shooter. A 19-year-old and a 44-year-old man died at the scene despite rescue efforts. A 56-year-old woman, initially in critical condition, succumbed to injuries in hospital. Four others, including a toddler, sustained injuries. The child, first in stable condition, has improved to satisfactory condition.
Authorities are verifying whether a self-admitted hospital patient, a 27-year-old man, is an eighth victim. Harborview Medical Center confirmed four people had injuries involving an arm, abdomen, and legs.
‘Families affected are enduring their worst days,’ Mayor Wilson remarked. ‘A community event that fosters culture and joy ending in violence is tragic.’
Seattle Center was hosting the Bite of Seattle food festival. Mayor Wilson emphasized the focus on supporting families, aiding the injured, and informing the public accurately. Governor Bob Ferguson noted SWAT officer involvement and expressed his prayers for the victims and responders.
Rep. Pramila Jayapal conveyed her shock, offering condolences to victims and appreciation for first responders. She highlighted nationwide grief over gun violence impacts. King County Executive Girmay Zahilay echoed his distress, recalling the community significance of the Bite festival.
A festival attendee, Kayla Carris, described the chaos. ‘People screamed, ducked, and ran for safety,’ she recalled. Another witness, Todd Behrends, recounted the panic as shots were fired and individuals scrambled to evade danger.