Over the past four days, the Seattle community tragically experienced three separate incidents of gun violence, resulting in the loss of lives. On Thursday, we were confronted with a targeted homicide occurring in front of a place of worship. While the motive for this premeditated act is still under investigation, we recognize the profound impact it has had on those who witnessed this traumatic event, as well as the broader community.
In the early morning hours of Sunday, two additional homicides occurred. The first stemmed from an unauthorized and unregulated gathering, which culminated in the loss of another community member. Shortly thereafter, a third homicide was reported, involving an individual discovered deceased in a parking lot, potentially linked to a vehicle collision or altercation.
Our dedicated officers, detectives, and crime scene investigators are actively engaged in all three investigations, pursuing leads with utmost diligence. Our analytical team is diligently reviewing public surveillance footage and digital records to provide insights into the circumstances leading to these tragic events and to identify those responsible.
We want to reassure the community that we are committed to preventing further incidents of gun violence. Achieving this goal requires collaboration between the criminal justice system and the community. We encourage everyone to report any indicators of potential violence they may observe, as early intervention is crucial for prevention.
The Seattle Police Department continuously analyzes and screens all incidents of violence in our city, refining our strategies to enhance safety and prevent future occurrences. Our department holds meetings twice a week to discuss violent crime trends and to determine resource allocations based on data-driven approaches and assessed needs.
We urge anyone with information concerning these cases to call SPD’s Violent Crimes Tip Line at 206-233-5000. Together, we can work tirelessly to ensure justice is served and maintain the safety and security of our city.
The Seattle Police Department remains resilient and relentless in its mission to protect our community.
Video Below: Chief Barnes speaks during a press conference on 8/4/25.