Gunfire erupts during Bite of Seattle event near iconic Space Needle; child among the wounded as police take suspect into custody.
Two people were killed and five others injured, including a two-year-old child, in a shooting at Seattle Center on Sunday evening during the popular Bite of Seattle food festival.
The gunfire broke out around 6pm local time near the northwest side of the Armory building in the large civic complex that also houses the Space Needle and Museum of Pop Culture. The annual free-admission food festival, one of the city’s biggest summer events, was in its final hours when multiple shots rang out, sending crowds of attendees running in panic.
Two Dead, Five Injured in Seattle Festival Shooting:
Seattle Fire Department officials confirmed that two people were pronounced dead at the scene despite life-saving efforts by first responders. Five others were wounded. Four of the injured were taken to Harborview Medical Center, the region’s top trauma facility. Among them was a two-year-old boy who was reported in stable condition, a 56-year-old woman in serious or critical condition who underwent surgery, a 23-year-old man, and a 39-year-old woman, both in satisfactory condition. A 40-year-old woman with minor injuries declined hospital transport.
Witnesses described the scene as “pure chaos,” with people screaming, running, and taking cover as gunshots echoed across the festival grounds. Seattle Police Department officers responded quickly, secured the area, and advised the public to avoid the vicinity. The monorail serving the Seattle Center was temporarily closed, and nearby facilities, including parts of the Pacific Science Center, were evacuated.
Suspect Arrested After Deadly Seattle Festival Shooting:
Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson said police had taken at least one suspect into custody. Some earlier reports mentioned two individuals detained, though officials later clarified details of the investigation remained ongoing. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) confirmed its agents were assisting Seattle police at the scene.
The motive for the shooting has not been publicly disclosed. Authorities have not released the identities of the victims or the suspect, pending further investigation and notification of families.
The Bite of Seattle, which draws hundreds of thousands of visitors over three days with food vendors, live music and performances, was abruptly halted. Harborview Medical Center temporarily placed itself on partial lockdown for security reasons related to the incident before later lifting the measure.
Governor Bob Ferguson expressed condolences to the victims’ families and said state resources, including the Washington State Patrol SWAT team, had been offered to assist local authorities. Police continue to urge anyone with information or video footage from the area to come forward as the investigation proceeds.