Gunfire strikes Seattle community center as Mayor Katie Wilson attends event

Police are investigating after gunfire struck a building in Seattle’s Yesler Terrace neighborhood Tuesday evening while Mayor Katie Wilson was attending a community event with children and adults.

The Seattle Police Department said officers received reports of multiple people shooting near the Yesler Terrace Community Center at around 5:30 pm. The building was damaged, but no injuries were reported.

Witnesses told police that three to four suspects fled the area in a dark-colored sedan. Detectives with the department’s Gun Violence Reduction Unit and Crime Scene Investigations responded to the scene to collect evidence and interview witnesses.

“This shooting reminds us that violence has no place in our community. Our neighbors have the right to gather, speak, and celebrate without fear of violence,” Seattle Police Chief Shon Barnes said. “Addressing gun violence requires us to take a whole-of-Seattle approach that includes the criminal justice system. We must work together to do more to protect each other.”

Wilson said the shooting happened shortly after she announced new investments in Seattle’s children and families. “No one was injured, but it was a stark reminder of a reality too many people in this city live with every day,” Wilson said. “We cannot let this become normal.”

The mayor said her administration will continue investing in opportunity while working on public safety, adding that she plans to share more in the coming weeks about a comprehensive strategy to address gun violence.

Police are asking anyone with information to call the tip line at 206-233-5000. Tips can be made anonymously.