SEATTLE — Seattle police are investigating a double homicide of two teens in the Rainier Beach neighborhood.
According to Seattle police, the shooting happened at the intersection of Rainier Ave S. and S. Henderson Street around 4 p.m.
Seattle Fire said they were pronounced dead at the scene.
It’s unclear what led up to the shooting.
Their ages are unknown, but Seattle Public Schools said the pair were teenagers, believed to be students in the district.
The shooting took place just around the corner from Rainier Beach High School.
In a letter to students and families, Superintendent Fred Podesta wrote:
It is with profound heartbreak that I share the devastating news of the death of two teenagers believed to be Seattle Public Schools (SPS) students, who were tragically shot at a bus stop near South Shore PreK-8 today after school. The district is working with the Seattle Police Department (SPD) to confirm all details.
The loss is almost impossible to put into words, and it is made even more painful by the reality that tragedies like this are becoming far too common in our communities. Our deepest condolences are with the students’ families, friends, and all who knew and loved them.
Out of an abundance of caution and care for our community, SPS has canceled all activities at Rainier Beach, Alan T. Sugiyama High School, and South Shore PreK-8 for the remainder of this evening and throughout the weekend. Additional events may be canceled as a precaution.
We understand this loss may bring up a range of emotions for our students, staff, and families. We are especially concerned for the students and staff who witnessed this horrific event. Experiencing something so traumatic can leave lasting emotional impact, and we want to ensure that our students and staff receive the care and compassion they need during this difficult time.
SPS is mobilizing support services for students, staff, and families as they grieve and begin to process this profound loss.
I am deeply appreciative of the swift actions taken by SPD, the SPS Safety and Security team, and all our staff at nearby schools who ushered students to safety. Thank you for your rapid response in securing campuses and providing support to our students and families.
In moments like these, we are reminded of the fragility of life and the senselessness of violence. Please keep your loved ones close and find strength and comfort in one another.
Police are still looking for a possible suspect.
It’s believed that it was a targeted shooting, but the investigation is still underway.
It also appears one Seattle Police officer was injured. A KIRO 7 photographer on scene saw police standing around another officer before that officer was taken away on a gurney. That officer was taken away conscious and apparently upright and cognizant.
Roads around the shooting have been shut down while police investigate. The north and south lanes on 20th Ave S and S Jackson St are shut down.
Avoid the area.
If you have any information on the shooting, call SPD Tipline at 206-233-5000.
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