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Curfews lifted in Bellevue, Mercer Island

The curfew for downtown Bellevue was lifted Thursday after authorities assessed that the imminent threat of destructive disturbances changed.

Although officials made the change, police still advised businesses to take precautionary measures, securing valuables and entry points to establishments while unrest remains in the region.

Bellevue Mayor Lynne Robinson had declared a civil emergency as a result of looters in the downtown area, damaging property and stealing merchandise.

The city had set a curfew that was supposed to last until 5:30 a.m. Monday because some demonstrators had broke windows and damaged property.

As the city tries to return to normal, it plans to return to daily assessments to determine if further measures for public safety are needed.

Over on Mercer Island, the curfew was also lifted. It was originally supposed to end Friday morning.

The city said it believed it could protect public safety without the measures in place.