News Release

For Immediate Release
Oct.13, 2026

FROM THE OFFICE OF: Councilmember Robert Kettle

CONTACT: Brad Harwood, Communications Director 206-798-7577 or brad.harwood@seattle.gov

Public Safety Chair Kettle calls for more comprehensive gun violence plan after shootings near Seattle’s Kerry Park and Seattle Center

SEATTLE – Today Councilmember Bob Kettle (District 7), chair of the Public Safety Committee, released the following statement after two people were hurt and one person was arrested in a shooting at Kerry Park on Saturday night, according to Seattle Police. This morning, also in District 7, police reported a gas station clerk shot dead near Seattle Center in the Belltown neighborhood.  

“Gun violence has impacted the whole city of Seattle from north Aurora Avenue to Rainier Beach. Seattle Center and Belltown have experienced gun violence and now, our iconic Kerry Park in Queen Anne as well.

“Forty-four shots fired, two gunshot victims to Harborview — and another neighborhood traumatized. My office has engaged the mayor’s administration the entire summer about the need to have a comprehensive approach across the Police, Parks and Transportation departments at Kerry Park. Inaction is not right, nor is it acceptable. In addition to emphasis patrols, which I requested earlier this year, we need strategic cross-departmental action.

“We, as a city, also need a comprehensive plan as called for in my Oct. 10 email to Mayor Wilson. The City Council has taken steps on this point. Councilmembers have requested concrete details about Mayor Wilson’s plan to address gun violence in light of the recent shootings, and the role of SPD staffing in gun violence efforts. The City Council has expressed a clear desire to partner with the mayor to fully address gun violence. I am optimistic that we’ll see a coherent, inclusive, and results-based strategy soon.”

About the City Council
The Seattle City Council is the elected legislative branch of the city’s government. It’s comprised of nine councilmembers serving four-year terms and representing more than 800,000 constituents — seven selected by districts and two through citywide positions. For the latest news and information, please visit seattle.gov/council.

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