Three people were killed and four others injured, including a two-year-old boy, after gunfire broke out Sunday evening at Seattle Center during a crowded annual food festival, with police still searching for a second suspect as of Monday.
The shooting began around 6:01 p.m. local time as thousands of families gathered for the event. Witnesses described a chaotic scene as people scrambled for cover, with some fleeing into the nearby Space Needle to take shelter.
One suspect was taken into custody at the scene, while a second fled before officers could apprehend them and remains at large as the search continues, according to Seattle Police Assistant Chief Tyrone Davis. Speaking to reporters Monday, Davis said investigators believe the two suspects were shooting at one another when the incident unfolded.
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Four people remain hospitalized in stable condition, including the young child. Davis said he could not share additional details about the suspect already in custody beyond confirming that the individual is young. When asked whether those injured were innocent bystanders, he said authorities do not yet know the extent of anyone’s involvement in the incident.
Davis expressed sorrow over what happened, calling it a tragedy. Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson described the shooting as an unbelievable tragedy and a horrific act of violence, adding that more needs to be done to address gun violence both in Seattle and across the country.
The Space Needle flew its flag at half-staff following the shooting as police continued their response and investigation at the scene.
