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Seattle Mayor Launches Police Chief Search After Festival Shooting

8/4/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Mayor Katie Wilson announced a search for a police chief after Shon Barnes resigned.
She said the chief must lead, listen to officers, stay in Seattle, limit travel and remain available for emergencies.
Wilson will work with Councilmember Bob Kettle, Seattle City Council and a committee, noting charter sets a floor, not a ceiling, for process, after a mass shooting at the Bite of Seattle festival, prompting youth gun-violence calls.

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Story summary

Mayor Katie Wilson announced a search for a police chief after Shon Barnes resigned.
She said the chief must lead, listen to officers, stay in Seattle, limit travel and remain available for emergencies.
Wilson will work with Councilmember Bob Kettle, Seattle City Council and a committee, noting charter sets a floor, not a ceiling, for process, after a mass shooting at the Bite of Seattle festival, prompting youth gun-violence calls.