Authorities now suspect that three individuals played a role in a mass shooting at Seattle Center, leading to three fatalities and injuring four others. A 15-year-old has been apprehended in connection with the incident. Reports indicate that one of the suspected gunmen was among those killed, as stated in a juvenile court document in Seattle.
The police initially believed there were two shooters, but the document suggested that the teenager and a companion, found dead at the scene, might have engaged in a gunfight with at least one unidentified suspect. A manhunt is ongoing for the remaining suspect.
Seattle Police advised residents to keep away from the area.
Earlier, officials reported that the teenager was detained in juvenile custody, suspected of firearms violations and first-degree assault. The Associated Press noted that the teenager waived an initial court hearing. No homicide charges have been filed against the minor yet.
Mayor Katie Wilson commented on the investigation, stating that the teenager allegedly fired into the crowd, but details are still under scrutiny. The Seattle Police Department Chief, Shon Barnes, mentioned that gunfire was exchanged outside the Seattle Center Armory, catching several bystanders in the line of fire. The incident possibly arose from a clash between small opposing groups.
A 19-year-old man and a 44-year-old man were declared dead at the scene despite rescue efforts. A 56-year-old woman was critically injured and later passed away at the hospital. Additional victims included a 2-year-old boy, a 23-year-old man, a 39-year-old woman, and a 40-year-old woman. The toddler has been upgraded to satisfactory condition, and other victims have either sustained minor injuries or been discharged from the hospital.
Investigators are checking if a 27-year-old man who reached the hospital independently counts as an eighth victim. Confirmation of his involvement is pending. Injuries involved areas such as the arm, abdomen, and legs, according to Seattle’s Harborview Medical Center spokesperson Susan Gregg.
Emergency services arrived at the Seattle Center shortly after 6 p.m., where the Bite of Seattle food festival was underway. Mayor Wilson described the shooting as a “horrific act of violence.” She added that families are enduring their darkest moments and the community is grappling with the tragedy during an event centered on cultural celebration and joy.
The site’s primary concern now focuses on supporting affected families, caring for the injured, and ensuring accurate public information. Washington Governor Bob Ferguson received briefings, and State Patrol SWAT officers joined Seattle Police in response. The governor’s thoughts are with victims’ relatives and emergency workers.
Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal expressed her shock and sorrow, extending condolences to affected families. She also acknowledged the police, emergency responders, and medical personnel for their efforts. Her sentiments were shared by King County Executive Girmay Zahilay, who echoed the disbelief and heartbreak experienced by the community.
Individuals present during the chaos recounted their harrowing experiences. Kayla Carris described the fear and disorder as spectators sought refuge inside the Seattle Center Armory. Todd Behrends witnessed people scrambling for safety and recalled seeing injured individuals.