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Seattle Mayor Fires Chief, Appoints Sayles After Festival Shootout

8/1/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson fired Police Chief Shon Barnes and appointed Andre Sayles as chief on July 31, 2026.
A shootout at the Bite of Seattle festival killed three people, wounded four, and led to the arrest of a 15-year-old charged with assault.
Critics said the city delayed its briefing after the shooting, with the Seattle NAACP, the Urban League and six council members condemning the mayor’s decision.

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Story summary

Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson fired Police Chief Shon Barnes and appointed Andre Sayles as chief on July 31, 2026.
A shootout at the Bite of Seattle festival killed three people, wounded four, and led to the arrest of a 15-year-old charged with assault.
Critics said the city delayed its briefing after the shooting, with the Seattle NAACP, the Urban League and six council members condemning the mayor’s decision.