Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson was escorted from a press conference at the Yessler Community Center on April 28 after nearby gunfire struck the building and a glass door. No injuries were reported and no arrests had been made as of Tuesday evening. Detectives from the Gun Violence Reduction Unit are investigating and have asked anyone with information to call 206-233-5000. Wilson had been announcing expanded school meal programs and childcare investments when the incident occurred.
Gunfire Near Yessler Community Center Sends Mayor Katie Wilson From Press Conference
Mayor Katie Wilson in October 2025Credit: AP Photo/Maddy Grassy
Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson was escorted away from a news conference at the Yessler Community Center on Tuesday, April 28, after gunfire was reported nearby.
Seattle Police said 911 calls came in shortly after 5 p.m. reporting multiple shots fired near the community center. Officers told local outlets they believe rounds were fired from a sedan carrying three to four people; bullets struck the building and shattered a glass door, and witnesses reported broken glass at the scene. No injuries were reported.
Authorities said it was not immediately clear whether the shooting was directly connected to the mayor's event. By Tuesday evening, no arrests had been made. Detectives from the Gun Violence Reduction Unit have opened an investigation and urged anyone with information to call the tip line at 206-233-5000.
Wilson, 43, who took office on Jan. 1, had been announcing a Seattle Public Schools plan to provide free lunch and breakfast for students and to expand childcare when the incident occurred. A mayoral spokesperson confirmed the loud noises heard inside the center were gunshots and that the mayor was present at the time.
"No one was injured, but it was a stark reminder of a reality too many people in this city live with every day," Wilson said in a statement.
Seattle Police Chief Shon Barnes condemned the shooting and called for a comprehensive, citywide approach to reduce gun violence, noting that protecting residents requires coordination across public safety and community resources.
Detectives continue to investigate. Authorities have asked anyone with video, photos, or other information related to the incident to contact the police tip line at 206-233-5000.
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