Seattle police chief criticized for being out of town during deadly festival shooting

A tragic shooting at the Bite of Seattle event in Seattle Center left three people dead and four wounded when up to three shooters exchanged fire on Sunday evening. While the incident unfolded, Police Chief Shon Barnes was attending the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives annual conference in Dallas, Texas, sparking criticism over his absence. When a reporter referenced a PubliCola study indicating the chief frequently spends weekends away from Seattle, Barnes reacted sharply, denying the report's accuracy and defending his commitment to the city.

He explained that his family lives in Chicago, limiting his ability to travel frequently, but affirmed his dedication to Seattle's neighborhoods and community. A department staffer intervened to de-escalate the confrontation. The episode adds to ongoing scrutiny of Barnes' leadership and his time away from the city he serves.