Full Breakdown
Fatal Shooting at The Growler Guys Beer Garden
5/10/2026, 11:12:38 PM
Core Facts
On Saturday morning, just before 9 a.m., Seattle police responded to a report of a man down inside a business at the 8500 block of Lake City Way NE in the Lake City neighborhood. The victim, a male employee in his early 20s, was found with fatal gunshot wounds and was pronounced dead at the scene by Seattle Fire Department personnel. No arrests have been made and police have released no suspect description.
Background on The Growler Guys and Victim
The Growler Guys is a locally-owned beer garden and restaurant that serves the Wedgwood, Ravenna, Maple Leaf and Roosevelt neighborhoods. The deceased was identified as 26-year-old Quusaa Margarsa, known to friends as “Q.” Margarsa attended Nathan Hale High School, had worked at the venue for about a year, and was trusted with closing duties the night before the shooting.
Key Individuals
- Quusaa Margarsa – Victim, employee of The Growler Guys.
- Kelly Dole – Owner of The Growler Guys.
- Shon Barnes – Seattle Police Chief.
- Detective Eric Muñoz – Seattle Police spokesperson.
- King County Medical Examiner’s Office – Custodian of the body for identification and autopsy.
Timeline of Events
- ? 8:55 a.m. – Employees arrive for a work party and discover the victim.
- Shortly after – Seattle police and fire units respond; victim is pronounced dead.
- Morning – Homicide and Crime Scene Investigative Units cordon the area and begin evidence collection, including surveillance video.
- 11:10 a.m. – Seattle Police post on X that a homicide is under investigation.
- Afternoon – Police increase patrols in the vicinity and continue canvassing for witnesses.
Data & Statistics
- Victim: Quusaa Margarsa, 26 years old.
- Location: 8500 block of Lake City Way NE, Seattle.
- This incident is Seattle’s 12th homicide of the calendar year.
- No suspect information or motive has been disclosed.
Official Statements & Police Response
Chief Barnes said investigators are in the early stages, gathering physical and digital evidence while focusing on the business site. He emphasized the department’s commitment to “bring justice to the family” and announced an increased police presence in the area. Detective Muñoz confirmed that the case remains open, that the medical examiner will determine cause and manner of death, and that anyone with information should contact the Violent Crimes Tip Line at 206-233-5000.
Verbatim Quotes
- “He was so buoyant and cheerful to be around,” — Kelly Dole, owner, The Growler Guys
- “He was the type of friend that everybody wanted to have,” — Kelly Dole
- “When we have things like this, we have to reevaluate what we could've done better,” — Chief Shon Barnes
- “How can we make sure that we're doing everything in our power to bring justice to this family, because quite frankly, they deserve it.” — Chief Shon Barnes
- “Q was the type of person, he was like the friend you wish you had,” — Kelly Dole
Community Reaction
Friends and family gathered at the scene for several hours, many visibly upset. Neighbors described the venue as a “popular community gathering place” known for live music and family events. The victim’s close circle was referred to as a “band of brothers,” underscoring the personal loss felt by the neighborhood.
Conflicting Reports & Information Gaps
Sources differ on the precise moment the shooting occurred, and police have not confirmed whether the gunfire happened inside or outside the restaurant. Motive, number of shooters, and any connection to robbery remain unverified.
Next Steps
Seattle police urge anyone with information or surveillance footage to call 911, Crime Stoppers, or the tip line at 206-233-5000. Detectives will continue processing evidence, reviewing video, and canvassing the area while maintaining heightened patrols.
