At least 2 people were killed and 5 wounded, including a child, during a shooting at the Bite of Seattle festival near the Space Needle. The gunfire began around 6 p.m. at the Seattle Center, prompting police to urge crowds to stay away from the northwest area of downtown. Authorities did not immediately say if anyone was in custody.

Grace Nuñez, spokesperson for the Seattle Fire Department, confirmed the deaths and reported that five patients were transported to Harborview Medical Center. A 56‑year‑old woman remains in serious condition, while a 2‑year‑old boy, a 23‑year‑old man, a 39‑year‑old woman and a 40‑year‑old woman are in stable or minor condition. Vendor booths lined the complex as thousands sampled foods and played games.

Police and emergency crews responded swiftly, evacuating the area. Faith Adia Hunter described how she and friends were near a crepe vendor when the shooter emerged; they ran to the Seattle Children’s Museum for shelter. Estan Wakonabo recounted being shoved from behind, hearing “pop, pop, pop,” and later photographing victims. The annual festival, which began in 1982, attracts 350,000 attendees over three days of food, drink, and community celebration.