More than 100 people gathered in Rainier Beach for a somber vigil honoring two teenagers shot and killed at a bus stop Friday afternoon, just blocks from their school.
The event drew a crowd largely comprised of teenagers and young people, many connected to the victims, believed to be students at nearby Rainier Beach High School. Among those in attendance were the grieving mothers and family members of the victims, supported by local pastors who offered prayers.
King County Executive Girmay Zahilay, Seattle City Attorney Erika Evans, City Councilmembers Eddie Lin and Dionne Foster, and Seattle Public Schools interim Superintendent Fred Podesta were also present. One of the mothers, who chose to remain unnamed, expressed her profound sorrow: “It’s my only child, and he’s gone.” She revealed that her mother was also a victim of gun violence.
Reverend Lawrence Willis of the New Direction Missionary Baptist Church emphasized the need for compassion, urging, “We’ve got to continue to put our arms around all these young men that are here today.” The vigil transitioned into calls for change, with community members voicing frustration. “It has to stop!” one woman exclaimed.
Community advocate Victoria Beach called for the return of police presence in schools, suggesting it could prevent future violence. “We have to do whatever it takes to keep them safe, I don’t care what it is,” she said.
Seattle Public Schools removed police officers from campuses in 2020 during the Black Lives Matter protests and recently rejected a proposal for a school engagement officer at Garfield High School. In response to the tragedy, the district is collaborating with the Seattle Police Department to increase patrols in the area. A spokesperson stated, “Our hearts remain with the families and community members impacted by this tragic violence.”
Superintendent Ben Shuldiner, who begins his tenure Sunday, Feb. 1, has prioritized strengthening safety measures across the district. The district encourages anyone with information to contact the Seattle Police Department tip line at 206-233-5000, with the option to remain anonymous.
