Additional Coverage:
Two people lost their lives and several others were injured in a mass shooting at Seattle Center on Sunday, officials reported.
Emergency responders arrived at the scene shortly after 6 p.m. The popular venue had been hosting the Bite of Seattle food festival during the weekend.
Seattle Police urged the public to steer clear of the area, posting a warning on social media.
The Seattle Fire Department confirmed that despite attempts at life-saving measures, two victims were pronounced dead at the scene. Among the injured, three individuals-including a 2-year-old child-were taken to a hospital in stable condition, while another was reported to be in serious condition. A fifth person sustained minor injuries but declined hospital transport.
Authorities have not yet disclosed whether any suspects have been apprehended. Police continue to investigate the incident.
Eyewitness accounts describe a chaotic scene. Kayla Carris, 22, recalled sitting outside the Armory when panic erupted.
“Everyone was just throwing stuff and running,” she said. Todd Behrends, 59, reported hearing multiple gunshots and witnessing people scrambling to escape, with some even falling in the rush.
In response to heightened police activity, Harborview Medical Center went on lockdown, and the Seattle Center Monorail service was suspended for the remainder of the day.
Officials are urging residents to avoid the area as the investigation continues. Further updates are expected as authorities work to piece together the events surrounding this tragic incident.