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Bite of Seattle Mass Shooting Prompts Probe and Scrutiny of Police Response

A multiagency investigation continues with a teen suspect in custody as public concern grows over delayed official statements and the police chief’s out‑of‑town travel.

Overview

  • The shooting at the Bite of Seattle festival on Sunday killed three people and injured four others, including a toddler.
  • Investigators detained a 15-year-old at the scene and say juvenile-court filings show he and a 19-year-old believed to be a shooter exchanged gunfire with at least one other unknown person.
  • Police recovered multiple firearms at the scene and say additional suspects may remain at large while the FBI, ATF and state partners support the multiagency probe.
  • Officials faced criticism after nearly five hours passed before clear public statements and the mayor’s office issued incorrect early information about suspects in custody.
  • Chief Shon Barnes, who was in Dallas for a law-enforcement conference when the shooting occurred, defended his travel after a viral on-camera clash with a reporter and the department later released travel records while canceling a planned interview.