Seattle Police are ramping up patrols around Garfield High School in response to online reports suggesting a local youth gang may be targeting students. The increased presence comes amid heightened concerns from both Seattle Public Schools (SPS) and law enforcement over recent safety threats.
According to a statement released by the Seattle Police Department (SPD), a series of social media posts last week referenced a possible plan by an “unknown youth local gang” to “target” several Garfield students after sixth period. While no direct threats were made and there was no confirmation of weapons involved, SPD launched what it described as a “directed patrol” effort to ensure increased officer visibility around the 23rd Avenue campus.
The school had already announced enhanced security measures before the reports surfaced, including a stronger police presence and additional safety protocols. These steps followed faculty reports that a small group of non-students — estimated to be three to four individuals — entered the campus last week wearing ski masks. There were no confirmed confrontations or injuries, and it remains unclear whether the individuals were armed.
Seattle Public Schools has also introduced a district-wide “visitor management system” this spring, aimed at improving campus security through surveillance enhancements and increased coordination with private security and SPD.
Garfield High School has been grappling with the aftermath of recent gun violence affecting its students. Just last week, senior Salvador “Junior” Granillo, a member of the Class of 2025, was fatally shot at a late-night gathering in Yakima. His death comes less than a year after 17-year-old Amarr Murphy-Paine was killed during a lunchtime altercation in the school’s parking lot in June 2023.
While the latest threats have not led to any reported incidents or arrests, SPD continues to monitor the situation closely, urging the public to report any suspicious activity.
