Authorities in Seattle reported that bullets that killed two bystanders during a shootout at a food festival are not linked to the gun used by a 15-year-old suspect. The King County prosecutor charged the teenager with first-degree assault with a firearm enhancement and unlawful possession of a handgun by a minor. Court documents state the teen fired a ghost gun into the crowd, but preliminary tests show the bullets that killed the bystanders did not come from it.
The shootout involved four weapons, and a 19-year-old suspect died at the scene. As police escorted the teen past the body of the 19-year-old, the teen allegedly said, “Love you bro.” Investigators are looking to identify others involved.
The shootout occurred during the Bite of Seattle festival, resulting in three fatalities and at least four injuries, including a toddler. Authorities suggest gang involvement and are reviewing surveillance footage while interviewing attendees for more information.
An eighth person with a possible gunshot wound checked into a hospital but left before police could interview them. Investigators are seeking this person to determine if their injury is related to the incident.
Prosecutors have requested that the case be moved to adult court, a process that could take months. If convicted in adult court, the teenager could face an eight to ten-year sentence plus an additional five years for firearm enhancement. In juvenile court, a conviction might result in a sentence of two to two and a half years. The impact of the firearm enhancement in juvenile detention is uncertain.
