Seattle Food Festival Shooting May Have Been Gang Related, Police Say Three Shooters Involved

A shootout at Seattle’s Bite of Seattle food festival near the Space Needle that killed three people and injured four others, including a toddler, may have been gang related, police said as investigators revealed they believe at least three shooters were involved in the deadly violence.

The gunfire broke out around 6 pm Sunday during the final hours of the three day festival at Seattle Centre, sending thousands of attendees fleeing for safety. Police initially believed two people were exchanging gunfire, but a juvenile court filing later indicated investigators now believe there were at least three suspects: a 15 year old arrested suspect, a 19 year old suspect who died at the scene, and at least one other unidentified shooter who remains under investigation.

Seattle Police Assistant Chief Nicole Powell said investigators believe two groups may have been shooting at each other, raising the possibility of a gang related motive. The 15 year old suspect appeared in juvenile court Monday and was ordered to remain in detention while authorities investigate allegations including firearms violations and first degree assault. The King County Prosecutor’s Office is expected to decide on possible charges after reviewing the case.

The victims were identified as Carlos Israel Sanchez Villalba, 44; Ashley Whitehead, 56; and Junior Cee Niko Semo, 19. Villalba, a father of three, was killed by a gunshot wound to the torso, while Semo was identified as one of those involved in the shooting. Whitehead later died from her injuries.

Four others were injured, including a 2 year old boy who was with his mother. The child and the other surviving victims were later reported to be stable or discharged from hospital.

The attack triggered chaos at the popular festival, which attracts around 350,000 visitors annually. Witnesses described scenes of panic as people ran into nearby buildings for shelter. Vendor Moises Perez said frightened attendees, including women and children, rushed into his apartment seeking safety.

Authorities also faced criticism over conflicting early statements about the number of suspects.