Two people died and five others were shot Sunday evening at a food festival near Seattle’s Space Needle, authorities confirmed. A suspect is in custody, Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson said, as state and federal agencies joined the investigation.
Victims transported to Harborview Medical Center
A 56-year-old woman was rushed to Harborview Medical Center in serious condition and later upgraded to critical after surgery, a hospital spokesperson told CBS affiliate KIRO-TV. Three additional victims, including a two-year-old boy, arrived in stable condition. A fifth victim with minor injuries declined treatment.
Seattle Fire Department pronounced two victims dead at the scene after life-saving efforts failed. The identities of the deceased have not been released.
Witnesses describe chaos as shots rang out
Dozens of attendees at the annual Bite of Seattle festival reported hearing multiple gunshots before fleeing. Nick Bate told KIRO-TV he initially mistook the noise for fireworks before crowds surged past him.
“Everybody started running, and so we just ran too,” said Leanne Coles, who recounted ducking through a garden with other panicked attendees. “It was really scary.”
Authorities secure scene as investigation begins
Seattle Police Department issued a social media alert Sunday evening, urging the public to avoid the Seattle Center area. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives confirmed its agents were on scene, with Seattle police leading the investigation.
Washington Governor Bob Ferguson dispatched the state SWAT team at the request of local authorities. The Seattle Center, home to the Space Needle and Climate Pledge Arena, was hosting thousands of festival-goers when the shooting occurred.
What happens next
Police have not released a motive or details about the suspect. Officials said updates would be provided as the investigation progresses. The Bite of Seattle festival, a three-day event, was canceled for the remainder of the weekend.
