A 15‑year‑old opened fire at Seattle’s Bite of Seattle festival, killing three and wounding four. The attack erupted outside the Seattle Center Armory on July 26, 2026, as families gathered for food, music and culture.
911 Calls Reveal Frantic Response
Newly obtained 911 recordings capture frantic callers reporting multiple people down and a suspect they did not identify. One caller, shot in the back, told dispatchers, “I’m losing blood,” while another said, “I took cover and saw officers down.”
Dispatchers instructed the wounded to breathe and promised to stay on the line. They requested additional aid units, confirming at least six gunshot wounds amid chaotic response.
Suspect in Custody, Investigation Ongoing
Police have taken a 15‑year‑old into juvenile detention on suspicion of firearms violations and first‑degree assault. No homicide charges have been filed as of the latest update.
Mayor and Police Chief Respond
Mayor Katie Wilson called the incident “an act of horrific violence” and said families were living through the worst moment of their lives. She urged the community not to let fear dictate attendance at public events.
Interim Police Chief Andre Sayles said investigators had new information and expected an arrest, but he withheld details to protect the investigation. He emphasized that the integrity of the case remained paramount.
National Context and Ongoing Investigation
The shooting follows a series of recent mass‑violence events, including a Toronto street festival attack. An Idaho fast‑food restaurant massacre underscores a nationwide surge in public‑space gunfire.
Authorities initially believed two gunmen were involved, but a juvenile‑court document indicated the teen and a dead acquaintance may have exchanged fire with an unidentified suspect. Police continue to canvass the area near the Armory for further evidence.
