A tragic shooting at Seattle’s popular Bite of Seattle food festival left three people dead and four others injured, including a toddler, on Sunday evening. Authorities have arrested one suspect while continuing their search for another individual believed to be involved.
The incident unfolded in downtown Seattle during one of the city’s largest annual food festivals, sending hundreds of visitors fleeing for safety.
Gunfire Erupts During Festival
According to the Seattle Police Department, officers quickly responded after gunfire broke out at the Seattle Center, where the festival was taking place.
Investigators believe two individuals exchanged gunfire, turning the crowded event into a scene of panic and chaos.
Police confirmed that one suspect has been taken into custody, while officers continue searching for a second person believed to have participated in the shooting.
Death Toll Rises to Three
Initially, authorities reported two fatalities. However, one of the injured victims later died in hospital, raising the death toll to three.
Four additional victims remain hospitalized. Officials said their injuries are currently considered stable.
Among those wounded is a toddler, highlighting the devastating impact of the violence on families attending the community event.
Mayor Condemns Gun Violence
Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson described the shooting as a heartbreaking tragedy and renewed calls for stronger action against gun violence.
She noted that the city has experienced several major shooting incidents within just a few days, describing the latest attack as another painful reminder of the ongoing public safety crisis.
The mayor expressed sympathy for the victims and thanked emergency responders for their rapid response.
Investigation Continues
Police recovered two firearms from the scene and are interviewing the suspect in custody.
Authorities have not yet released the suspect’s identity or disclosed a possible motive behind the shooting.
Investigators are working to determine the circumstances surrounding the exchange of gunfire and whether the suspects knew each other.
No Ongoing Threat
Despite the active investigation, Seattle police said they do not believe there is an ongoing threat to the public.
Detectives from the homicide unit and gun violence reduction team remain at the scene collecting evidence and interviewing witnesses.
Officials have urged anyone with videos or information about the incident to come forward as investigators continue piecing together the events that led to the deadly shooting.
