A festive weekend at Seattle's annual Bite of Seattle food festival turned into a scene of panic after a mass shooting near the iconic Space Needle left two people dead and five others injured, including a two-year-old child. The incident occurred around 6 pm local time on Sunday at the Seattle Center, prompting a massive police response.

According to the Seattle Police Department, officers responded to reports of multiple gunshots and quickly secured the area. Two suspects have been taken into custody, although authorities have not yet disclosed their identities or the motive behind the attack. The investigation remains ongoing.

Festival Erupts into Chaos

The shooting occurred while thousands of visitors were attending the popular three-day food festival, which attracts more than 350,000 people annually. Witnesses described hearing several loud bangs before crowds began running for safety.

Videos shared on social media captured people taking cover as repeated gunshots rang out across the festival grounds.

Victims Undergoing Treatment

The Seattle Fire Department confirmed that two victims died despite emergency lifesaving efforts. Five others suffered gunshot wounds and were taken to Harborview Medical Center, the region's leading trauma hospital.

Hospital officials said one woman underwent emergency surgery and remained in critical condition, while the remaining injured—including a two-year-old boy—were reported to be in stable or satisfactory condition.

Eyewitnesses Describe Panic

Festival-goers said they initially mistook the gunfire for fireworks before realising an active shooting was underway.

Witnesses reported scenes of panic as families abandoned food stalls, people hid behind structures, and parents rushed to protect children. Authorities also temporarily shut down the Seattle Center Monorail as emergency operations continued.

Investigation Continues

Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson confirmed that two suspects had been detained and praised police officers for their swift response. Officials said investigators are working to determine the circumstances that led to the shooting and have appealed to witnesses to provide information.

Washington Governor Bob Ferguson and Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal expressed condolences to the victims' families and thanked emergency responders for their efforts.

Police have urged the public to avoid the area while forensic teams continue examining the crime scene.