The Seattle Police Department is aggressively pursuing leads in several recent incidents of gun violence in Rainier Beach, Othello Park and the Central District.
Last night, police were called to the 9400 block of Rainier Avenue South, where officers found evidence that more than 50 rounds were fired from a high-powered rifle and two handguns during an apparent drive-by shooting shortly after 11 PM. Five vehicles and five businesses were struck by gunfire in the incident, but thankfully no one was injured.
Police are also investigating another shooting in the area, which took place just after 11PM on May 12th. At that scene, police also found evidence that as many as 60 rounds were fired from a high-powered rifle and two handguns in a secluded area near an apartment complex in the 9200 block of 56th Avenue S, approximately one block from the scene of last night’s drive-by shooting. Police were unable to find any damage at the scene, or any witnesses who could identify the shooters.
Additionally, police are still investigating an exchange of gunfire at Othello Park in South Seattle—leaving one woman with shrapnel wounds—as well as four shootings in the Central District, which left three young men dead and another man with critical injuries.
As police work to determine any connection between these recent incidents. Chief Bailey has ordered the use of all available resources to investigate these cases and prevent further bouts of gun violence. Detectives from the Homicide/Assault and Gang Units are working these cases, and the department has assigned SWAT and other department resources to bolster visible patrols in areas effected by this sudden violence.
Police have developed leads in several of these cases, but are still seeking additional tips. If you have information about any of these incidents, please contact the Seattle Police violent crimes tip line at (206) 233-5000.