3 killed, 4 injured in mass shooting at Seattle's Bite of Seattle food festival

What Happened

Three people were killed and several others wounded, including a toddler, after two people apparently started shooting at each other at a popular Seattle food festival near the city's iconic Space Needle. The shooting was initially reported just after 6 p.m. Sunday, July 26, 2026.

The three victims who died were a 19-year-old man, a 44-year-old man, and a 56-year-old woman. Other victims included a 23-year-old man and 39-year-old woman who have since been discharged from Harborview, and a 27-year-old man who was released from nearby UW Medical Center – Montlake.

Investigation and Response

One gunman surrendered after being confronted by police, while another shooter was being sought after they fled Seattle Center. Assistant Seattle Police Chief Tyrone Davis said "There were two people who we believe were shooting at each other". One suspect, described only as a "young person," has been taken into custody. The federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives said Sunday night that several of its agents were at the scene and that Seattle police would lead the investigation.

Why It Matters

The deadly Sunday-evening shooting at the Bite of Seattle, a free event that draws hundreds of thousands of guests each year, sent attendees running for their lives. A large group was seen knocking down a fence to escape after a volley of gunfire, the latest gruesome entry in the ever-expanding log of Americans victimized by gun violence while doing everyday activities. The Seattle Center is a popular tourist location that includes the iconic Space Needle and Climate Pledge Arena, home of the Seattle Kraken and Seattle Storm.

Legal Proceedings

The King County Prosecuting Attorney's Office said that the suspect who was arrested will likely appear in court for formal charges. Authorities continue to search for the second suspect involved in the incident.