Seattle police have arrested two suspects in connection with a mass shooting near the Space Needle on Sunday that left three people dead and four others injured, including a toddler.
The shooting occurred near the Bite of Seattle food festival, sending crowds into panic as gunfire erupted. Witnesses described chaotic scenes as attendees scrambled to escape.
Estan Wakonabo, a witness at the festival, said it was "pure chaos."
He recounted seeing people trampling over one another and later observed several gunshot victims lying on the ground.
Mayor Katie Wilson called the incident "an act of horrific violence" as investigators secured the area.
Former law enforcement officials praised the rapid response of emergency personnel, noting that swift police intervention led to the prompt detention of a suspect.
Security experts highlighted the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in securing soft targets and managing public safety during large gatherings and open-air events.
Authorities have not released the identities of the suspects or victims pending notification of families. The investigation is ongoing.
