Three people have lost their lives in a shooting that took place at Seattle’s famous Bite of Seattle festival as a result of gunshots fired near the famed Space Needle monument on Sunday evening.
Authorities say one suspect has been arrested while a second suspect remains at large. Investigators believe the shooting stemmed from an exchange of gunfire between the two individuals rather than a random attack, though the motive remains under investigation.
What Happened?
The shooting happened about 6 p.m. local time on July 26 when Bite of Seattle was drawing to an end, which is an annual large-scale food festival that takes place at Seattle Center in Seattle City.
This festival is always crowded by various food stalls, artists, and visitors annually, and according to witnesses, when gunfire was heard, many people started to run in all directions in panic, as the festival was full of families.
Three Dead, Four Injured
Seattle Police Department reported that there were seven gunshot victims in the shooting.
Two of the victims died on the spot. One more victim lost his/her life due to injuries at a neighboring hospital. The rest four victims are injured; one of them is a two-year-old child.
The officials say that the conditions of hospitalized victims are stable. The identities of the dead and injured victims have not been disclosed yet.
Police Believe Two People Opened Fire
During a late night news conference, Seattle Police Assistant Chief Tyrone Davis stated that the investigators believe that there were two people who were shooting at one another at the festival grounds. Two guns were seized from the scene by police.
One of the suspects, known only as a young person, has been apprehended right after the shooting occurred. The other suspected shooter is still on the run and remains unidentified as of yet. Nevertheless, police do not consider the presence of any danger to the general public.
Leaders Condemn the Violence
Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson described the shooting as an “unbelievable tragedy” and a horrific act of violence that shattered what should have been a celebration of community.
City officials extended condolences to the victims and their families while thanking first responders for their swift response.
The incident has once again reignited concerns over gun violence at large public gatherings in the United States.
This is a developing story.
