Seattle police are searching for answers after two men were killed in a shooting at Virgil Flaim Park in North Seattle, with the suspect still at large as of Monday.
The gunfire erupted near Northeast 123rd Street and 26th Avenue Northeast, close to a homeless encampment, leaving neighbors shaken and investigators piecing together what happened. Authorities said the circumstances remain unclear, including how many shooters were involved and what triggered the violence.
Detective Eric Munoz confirmed that a 40-year-old man died at the scene, while a 33-year-old man was rushed to Harborview Medical Center but later died from his injuries. Both victims were found only a few feet from the encampment.
Charles Hall, who lives across from the park, said he heard rapid bursts of gunfire before seeing people run. He noted that his partner spotted someone fleeing south from the park shortly after the shots. Hall, who once saw the park as a great neighborhood feature, reflected that “things in the city have changed,” and that the area no longer feels as safe.
Other residents echoed concerns, pointing out drug paraphernalia and trash littering the playground. One man, who asked not to be identified, described seeing “fentanyl foils all over the playground” along with other debris, saying it undermines what should be a safe, family-friendly space.
Hall expressed both concern and hope, adding that Seattle is “a great place” but one that has clearly shifted over the years.
Police are continuing to interview witnesses and have already recovered a firearm from the scene. Investigators do have a suspect description, Munoz said, and may release a sketch to the public once they gather more details. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.
