Seattle’s police chief resigned on Thursday following criticism regarding the delayed release of information after a deadly shootout at a food festival. Mayor Katie Wilson announced the resignation of Police Chief Shon Barnes, revealing that Deputy Chief Andre Sayles, a veteran with over 20 years in law enforcement, would serve as interim chief.
Barnes, speaking to The Seattle Times, stated that the decision about his position was the mayor’s to make. He had taken the day off to be with family. In a statement, Mayor Wilson expressed gratitude for Barnes’ service, quoting Barnes, “I hope this transition gives the city and this department the opportunity to return full focus to what matters most, addressing youth gun violence and preventing more tragedies.”
Barnes was attending a law enforcement conference when gunfire erupted at the Bite of Seattle festival. This annual event features food and retail vendors, alongside performers. The shootout resulted in three deaths, including one suspect, and wounded four, among them a 2-year-old boy. Despite the presence of many officers, and one even persuading a 15-year-old suspect to surrender, the city faced criticism for communication delays. Initial updates took nearly five hours post-event, and there was a failure to utilize the emergency alert system appropriately. Two arrests announced were later retracted.
“What I did not fully understand in that moment was how little information had reached the public or the press since the incident began at 6 p.m.,” said Wilson in a video statement.
Chief Barnes was the second Black police chief in Seattle. His supporters included several Black community organizations, which urged the mayor to retain him due to his role in enhancing community relations and reducing gun violence. Multiple city council members also voiced their support, emphasizing the need for stability amid frequent changes in leadership.
Barnes was initially appointed by former Mayor Bruce Harrell in December 2024, after serving as the police chief in Madison, Wisconsin. Despite Wilson’s past support for defunding the police, her decision to keep Barnes as chief seemed to signal a moderate stance on public safety to the community and business leaders.
Barnes faced criticism for his trips to Chicago, where his family resides, which amounted to approximately 18 days this year. His resignation coincides with another major Seattle event, the Seafair Weekend Festival 2026, which includes a boating event, air show, and festival.