On Sunday, what was meant to be a celebration of food and community turned into a heartbreaking tragedy after a shooting at the annual Bite of Seattle food festival left three people dead and four others injured, according to police. So, as the city mourns, the Seattle Storm released a statement expressing their support during a difficult time.
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“The Seattle Storm is heartbroken by the tragedy at Seattle Center last night. Our hearts are with those who were injured, the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives, and everyone impacted by this violence,” the hometown WNBA team wrote on their official X.
“We are grateful to the first responders, medical teams, and law enforcement officers who responded. Seattle Center is a place where our community comes together. It is our home, and a place that has brought people together across generations. In the days ahead, we will stand alongside our city.”
According to Seattle law enforcement, officers responded to reports of gunfire at the Bite of Seattle festival, an annual festival which attracts 350,000+ people. Investigators believe multiple people were involved in the exchange of gunfire. While the investigation remains active, one suspect, “a 15-year-old juvenile in connection with the shooting,” is reported to be in custody.
“No one should have to fear for their safety or their life before attending an event, gathering with friends, or experiencing our city. No parent should have to worry that their kid won’t come home at the end of the day,” Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson said.
“My heart right now is with the victims and their families, and with everyone in our community who is reeling from what happened here today.”
As reported by TIME, officers recovered two firearms from the scene, while investigators continue reviewing surveillance footage as part of the ongoing investigation. Authorities have not yet publicly identified a motive, and police say efforts to identify and locate any additional suspects remain underway.
But while officials continue piecing together exactly what happened, the tragedy has already left a deep impact across Seattle.
As Seattle Storm mourns, community gathers for Bite of Seattle shooting vigil
On Monday evening, members of the Seattle community gathered at Seattle Center’s International Fountain for a vigil honoring the victims and supporting everyone affected by the tragic event.
Mayor Wilson, Shon Barnes and several community members attended the gathering, which focused on healing and unity in the aftermath of the shooting. Organizers called for an end to gun violence before concluding the vigil with three minutes of silence, a prayer and a community rendition of This Little Light of Mine.
It is also worth noting that the Seattle Storm were not the only hometown team to express their condolences. The Seattle Seahawks also released a statement on Monday, expressing their support for those impacted by this tragedy.
“The entirety of the Seahawks organization sends its thoughts, prayers, and well wishes to all those affected, and stands with our Seattle family during this difficult time. We also thank the first responders and emergency personnel for their aid and support for those in need,” the team wrote on X.
That being said, the Seattle Storm will resume their regular season campaign following the All-Star break on Tuesday. Currently on a six-game losing streak and with just two wins in their last 10 games, the Storm will look to end their slide against the Indiana Fever.

