Two killed, five injured in mass shooting at Seattle food festival

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Seattle: Two people were killed and five others injured after a shooting broke out at the popular Bite of Seattle food festival at Seattle Centre, near the Space Needle, on Sunday evening. The Seattle Fire Department said emergency teams were notified soon after 6 p.m. local time after receiving reports of multiple shooting victims.

Despite lifesaving efforts, two persons were declared dead on the scene, while five others were transported to Harborview Medical Centre for treatment. One of the injured was a 2 years old boy, and a 56 years old lady reported to be in serious condition.

The incident sparked panic among festival attendees, with witnesses reporting many fleeing for safety and finding refuge in surrounding buildings as police surrounded the area. The annual culinary fair, which draws massive crowds, was winding down when the gunshots broke out.

Authorities initiated a major response, with Seattle police requesting that the public avoid the area. SWAT teams from the Washington State Patrol and agents from the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives reportedly contributed to the reaction.

Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson condemned the shooting as a horrible act of violence and sent her condolences to the victims and their families. A suspect was said to be in custody, but authorities have not revealed any information on the suspect or identified a motive. The investigation is progressing.