Why it's trending
The shooting at a major public event in a iconic location (near Space Needle) during a popular food festival has drawn national attention, especially as it adds to the tally of mass shootings in the US in 2026.
A shooting at the Bite of Seattle food festival Sunday evening left three people dead and multiple injured, including a 2-year-old, according to Seattle authorities. The shooting occurred around 6 p.m. at the Seattle Center, blocks from the Space Needle, as thousands attended the final day of the three-day festival.
The Seattle Fire Department reported two people died at the scene, and four others were transported to Harborview Medical Center, with a third victim later pronounced dead, police said in a press briefing. A woman declined hospital treatment. CNN reports three killed, while The Guardian states two killed and five wounded; the discrepancy reflects the evolving toll. One suspect is in custody, Mayor Katie Wilson confirmed, after initially saying two were detained.
The Bite of Seattle, which began in 1982, draws about 350,000 visitors over three days. Video on social media showed panicked crowds fleeing as gunshots rang out. The Pacific Science Center canceled Monday operations. Harborview Medical Center said victims suffered gunshot wounds to arm, leg, abdomen, and lower leg; one patient is in critical condition.
This shooting is one of at least 271 mass shootings in the US this year, per the Gun Violence Archive. Investigators have not identified a motive. Witness Estan Wakonabo described scenes of chaos as people fled, with baby strollers toppling. The Seattle Center, a 74-acre civic and arts complex, hosts over 12 million visitors annually.
Timeline
- Shooting at Bite of Seattle
Gunfire erupts at Seattle Center during the food festival; police respond.
- Initial casualty reports
Seattle Fire: two dead at scene, four transported, including a 2-year-old. Third victim later dies at hospital.
- Suspect in custody
Mayor Wilson announces one suspect arrested; earlier conflicting report of two suspects.
- Aftermath
Pacific Science Center closed. Investigation ongoing. Motive unknown.
Questions people ask
How many people were killed and injured?
Three people were killed, according to police. Six others were injured, including a 2-year-old. Four were hospitalized; two others (one woman and one additional victim) were treated or declined care.
Was a suspect arrested?
Yes, one suspect was taken into custody by Seattle police, Mayor Katie Wilson confirmed.
What was the event?
The Bite of Seattle, an annual food festival held at Seattle Center, featuring hundreds of vendors and live music. It draws about 350,000 visitors over three days.
Has the motive been determined?
No, the motive is unknown. Police are investigating.
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