Law enforcement arrested a suspect after a mass shooting at Seattle Center on Sunday evening left two people dead and five others injured, city officials and police confirmed.
The shooting occurred near the Bite of Seattle festival around 6 p. m.
>>> Asian Stocks Rise, Oil Prices Drop Over 4% on Middle East Calm
Emergency crews responded to reports of gunfire.
The Seattle Fire Department said two victims died at the scene despite life-saving efforts.
Three victims, including a 2-year-old boy, were taken to a local hospital in stable condition.
A fourth victim arrived in serious condition, and a fifth sustained minor injuries but declined hospital transport.
Seattle Police urged the public to avoid the area, posting on X during the response.
Harborview Medical Center was placed on lockdown as police activity increased, according to a staff email reported by The Seattle Times.
The Seattle Center Monorail was suspended for the evening.
>>> Microsoft Xbox Service Outage Triggers Licensing Error for Thousands
Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson condemned the violence.
"Impacted families are living through the worst moment of their lives, and an entire community is trying to understand how a gathering built around culture, connection, and joy ended in gunfire," she said.
Wilson stressed public safety during events.
"No one should have to weigh the risk of being shot before attending an event, gathering with friends, or experiencing their city," she added.
City leaders said the priority is supporting victims and providing accurate information.
Witnesses described chaos. "Everyone was just throwing stuff and running," said Kayla Carris.
Todd Behrends reported hearing multiple shots near the Armory, causing people to run and jump over each other; at least one person fell and was stepped on.
>>> Netherlands Braces for Heatwave with Temperatures Up to 37°C
Police took a suspect into custody following the incident.
