SEATTLE, Washington – A shootout over a stolen car at Golden Gardens dog park in Ballard turned deadly, leaving one man dead and three others injured on a Thursday afternoon. The Seattle Police Department (SPD) confirmed the incident at the 8400 block of Seaview Place Northwest around 4:06 p.m. A 44-year-old man lost his life, while a 25-year-old man sustained gunshot wounds and was transported to Harborview Medical Center in stable condition.
Lori Aagard of the SPD revealed that limited information is available about the incident. She explained that there were two separate scenes, but it all stemmed from a single incident at Golden Gardens Park and was possibly related to a stolen car. The vehicle in question was reportedly stolen at a different location before ending up at the park. However, it remains unclear whether the incident was related to an attempt to recover the stolen car.
Witnesses informed KOMO News that the gunfire broke out as several people were walking their dogs in the vicinity. In response to the shots, they fled to seek cover and avoid being harmed.
Approximately five minutes after the Golden Gardens shooting, the SPD tweeted about another incident at 26th Avenue Northwest and Northwest Market Street. The Seattle Fire Department treated two individuals there, a 50-year-old woman and a 38-year-old man, both suffering from gunshot wounds. They were subsequently taken to Harborview Medical Center, where they were later discharged.
A separate witness mentioned disturbances and yelling preceding the incidents. However, it was later clarified by the SPD that the only shooting occurred at Golden Gardens Park. The 50-year-old woman and 38-year-old man who had fled the park scene ultimately stopped at 26th Avenue Northwest and Northwest Market Street.
Lori Aagard indicated that she believes all individuals involved in the shootout have been identified. The authorities continue their investigation into this tragic incident.