Released 911 Calls Reveal Chaos, Injuries in Bite of Seattle Festival Shooting That Killed Three

Emergency dispatch recordings obtained in connection with the fatal shooting at Seattle’s Bite of Seattle festival provide a raw account of responders confronting a mass casualty incident outside the Seattle Center Armory. One shooting victim told a dispatcher he was losing blood after being struck in the back, unable to identify who had opened fire on the crowd.

The victim informed the emergency operator he had taken cover after the gunfire erupted and could see officers arriving at the scene near a water fountain. The dispatcher worked to stabilize the caller while emergency units were dispatched to his location, instructing him to focus on breathing as medical assistance made its way to him.

Additional radio traffic captured emergency personnel struggling to assess the full scope of the violence unfolding near the Armory. One dispatcher reported multiple people down while requesting as many ambulance units as possible, noting at least two victims initially but cautioning that the actual number appeared higher.

First responders initially treated the incident as an active shooting scene to ensure officer safety. As the situation developed, dispatchers confirmed at least six gunshot wounds amid the chaotic response to the unfolding emergency.

Seattle Police Interim Chief Andre Sayles indicated in early August that investigators had uncovered new evidence and anticipated making an arrest soon, though he withheld specifics to preserve the investigation’s integrity. A 15-year-old remains in juvenile custody on suspicion of gun violations and first-degree assault in connection with the incident.

The shooting occurred last month during the food festival celebration near the Space Needle, resulting in three deaths and four injuries, including a 2-year-old child. A 19-year-old man and a 44-year-old man died at the scene, while a 56-year-old woman succumbed to her injuries after hospitalization in critical condition.

Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell characterized the attack as an act of horrific violence that devastated an event centered on community and cultural celebration. He emphasized that no one should face the threat of being shot while attending public gatherings or experiencing their city.

Investigators initially believed the shooting involved an exchange of gunfire between opposing groups following a conflict, with bystanders caught between combatants. Early theories suggested two shooters were involved, though subsequent juvenile court documents indicated the detained teenager and a deceased acquaintance may have exchanged fire with at least one additional unidentified suspect.