Image@ BBC
Three people lost their lives and several others sustained injuries after gunfire erupted during a popular food festival near Seattle’s Space Needle in the United States on Sunday evening.
The shooting occurred around 6:00 p.m. local time at the Seattle Center, where thousands had gathered for the annual Bite of Seattle festival.
Authorities said one suspected gunman was arrested at the scene, while another remains at large.
Seattle Police Assistant Chief Tyrone Davis stated that preliminary investigations indicate the two suspects were exchanging gunfire when the violence unfolded.
Officers are actively searching for the second individual.
Emergency responders confirmed that two victims died at the location, while a third later succumbed to injuries after being transported to a hospital.
Among those hurt was a two-year-old child.
The Seattle Fire Department reported that four injured victims were admitted to hospital in stable condition, while another person declined medical treatment.
Footage circulating on social media showed frightened festivalgoers scrambling for safety inside the iconic Space Needle.
Many sought refuge behind display shelves and structural columns as the sound of gunshots sent crowds fleeing.
Mayor Katie Wilson praised law enforcement officers for their swift response, noting that an arrest was made shortly after the shooting.
She later corrected an earlier statement that had mistakenly indicated two suspects had been detained.
Police have launched a full investigation and advised residents and visitors to avoid the affected area while officers continue gathering evidence.
State and federal leaders strongly condemned the attack.
Washington Governor Bob Ferguson described the incident as a tragic and unnecessary act of violence, offering condolences to the victims’ families and expressing support for emergency personnel.
Seattle Representative Pramila Jayapal also extended sympathy to everyone affected, saying officials at the city, state, and federal levels are coordinating efforts to monitor developments and support the ongoing response.
Mayor Wilson described the shooting as a heartbreaking tragedy that shattered an event intended to celebrate community, culture, and togetherness.
She said the city’s immediate focus remains on those who lost loved ones, the injured, and families coping with the devastating aftermath, pledging that Seattle would stand beside them in the days ahead.
By: Magdalene Agyeiwaa Sarpong