Full Breakdown
Seattle Police Investigate Series of Early Morning Shootings
1/4/2026, 8:21:24 PM
Overview of the Incidents
Seattle police are investigating three separate shootings that occurred early on January 3, 2026, resulting in injuries to three individuals across different locations in the city. The incidents unfolded within a span of approximately six hours, with no arrests made as investigations continue.
Details of the Shootings
The first shooting occurred around midnight at the Mount Baker Transit Station, where a 38-year-old man sustained two non-life-threatening gunshot wounds to his left leg. He reported to police that he heard gunfire before feeling pain and was subsequently driven to Harborview Medical Center (HMC) by a friend.
The second incident took place at approximately 5:15 a.m. near North 128th Street and Aurora Avenue North. A 29-year-old woman, who was working in the area, was shot in the leg while attempting to flee from an argument that escalated into gunfire. She managed to flag down a passing motorist for a ride to Northwest Hospital (NWH), where she was treated for her injuries.
The third shooting was reported around 6:20 a.m. when a 26-year-old man arrived at HMC with gunshot wounds to his leg and back. He stated that he was shot from behind while standing outside a hookah lounge in the SODO district. An unidentified individual drove him to a gas station nearby, mistakenly believing it was the hospital, from where he walked to the emergency department.
Investigative Actions
The Seattle Police Department (SPD) has assigned the Homicide and Assault Unit and the Gun Violence Reduction Unit (GVRU) to investigate these incidents. Officers have collected evidence, including multiple shell casings and video footage from the transit center. The circumstances leading to each shooting are still under investigation, and police have urged anyone with information to come forward.
Criticism & Opposition
While the police continue their investigations, community members have expressed concerns regarding the rising gun violence in Seattle. Local advocates are calling for increased measures to address public safety and prevent further incidents.
Official Statements
The SPD has confirmed that all three cases remain open and active, with no arrests made thus far. They have emphasized the importance of community cooperation in providing information that could assist in resolving these cases.
Verbatim Quotes
- “According to the victim, he heard shots, felt pain, and then realized he had been hit.” — 38-year-old shooting victim
- “The 29 year old told officers that while working on Aurora and speaking to a potential customer, she heard an argument followed by nearby gunshots.” — 29-year-old shooting victim
- “He told police that an unknown person drove him to HMC and dropped him off at a nearby gas station, telling him he was at the hospital.” — 26-year-old shooting victim
Conclusion
The series of shootings in Seattle highlights ongoing concerns about gun violence in urban areas. As investigations proceed, the SPD is actively seeking community assistance to help bring clarity and resolution to these incidents.
