By Hannah Saunders
As the breeze picked up, and as Seattle residents had mere hours left to experience one of the city’s largest events, Bite of Seattle, several gunshots rang outside of the Seattle Center. Videos on social media show attendees dropping everything, including strollers, to flee for safety on the evening of July 26. Two people died at the scene, with one later succumbing to their wounds and passing away at Harborview Medical Center. Four others were injured, including a two-year-old, and are in stable condition, according to police.
“Our officers were there within seconds. They performed emergency aid to the wounded until the Seattle Fire Department was on scene,” said Acting Chief Tyrone Davis. “Simultaneously, officers launched a search for the people responsible for this senseless violence.”
Bite of Seattle ran from July 24-26 and featured over 200 food vendors and 70 bands. Seattle Police took one subject wearing a puffy winter coat, based on social media footage, into custody for questioning. Police suspect that two people were firing guns at each other, and are still searching for the second suspect.
Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson issued a statement later in the evening, calling the incident an “act of horrific violence.”
“No one should have to weigh the risk of being shot before attending an event, gathering with friends, or experiencing their city,” Mayor Wilson said.
The mayor thanked Seattle Police and first responders, as well as the Seattle Center event staff and bystanders for assisting people with reaching safety and providing first aid.
“We know that many people who were not physically injured will carry what they experienced today for a long time. That includes witnesses, workers, first responders, and everyone waiting to learn whether someone they love is safe. Call or text 988 if you or someone you want to help is experiencing a mental health crisis.”
During a late night press conference, Mayor Wilson highlighted how this marked a total of three shootings in Seattle over the weekend, and said that the city has much work to do to combat gun violence.
Community members are holding a candlelight vigil on July 27 at 8:30 p.m. at the International Fountain.
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