A violent shooting occurred on Sunday evening at an events complex in Seattle, Washington, leaving two people dead and five others injured. The incident took place during the "Bite of Seattle" food festival, which was hosting its 42nd edition at the Seattle Center. According to a spokesperson for the city’s fire department, the gunfire was reported at approximately 6 pm local time.
Police have launched an investigation into the shooting and have advised the public to avoid the area, which is located just northwest of downtown Seattle. Emergency crews and a significant police presence were mobilized shortly after the reports emerged, with officials working to evacuate attendees and ensure the safety of those at the festival site.
Harborview Medical Center, situated near the event, confirmed it admitted four victims, including two adult women, a 23-year-old man, and a toddler. An official from the hospital stated that one of the patients was in critical condition. Witness Estan Wakonabo described being in line for a photo booth when he was suddenly shoved from behind, followed by a chaotic rush of people attempting to flee the scene. "People were hiding and pushing, people were falling on the ground, baby strollers were falling," he recounted. Wakonabo added that he recognized the sound of gunfire, noting, "Once I heard a ‘pop, pop, pop,’ that’s when I knew it was a shooter." After ensuring his girlfriend reached safety, he returned to the area to document the scene for authorities, where he observed multiple victims on the ground.
The annual festival, which began in 1982, is recognized as the city's largest free-admission event, typically drawing over 350,000 attendees over three days of food, drink, and community celebration.
