US: Mass shooting horror at Seattle Food Festival leaves 2 dead, child among injured

The shooting occurred just a block away from the city's iconic Space Needle.

Two victims were pronounced dead at the scene, while four others, including a two-year-old child, were taken to hospital, CNN reported, citing the Seattle Fire Department.

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Harborview Medical Center said all the patients had sustained gunshot wounds, with one woman reported to be in critical condition.

Providing an update on X, the Seattle Police Department said: "Police are investigating a shooting. Multiple shooting victims. Shots fired at the Seattle Center. More information to come. Please avoid the area."

Authorities have not yet identified a suspect or confirmed whether anyone has been taken into custody.

The shooting occurred while the city was hosting the annual Bite of Seattle festival, one of the region's largest food events, featuring dozens of local vendors and attracting large crowds.

Several videos circulating on social media captured the chaotic moments after the gunfire erupted, showing panicked festival-goers running for safety.

Two witnesses attending the festival told CNN affiliate KOMO they heard "seven to eight shots" before people began fleeing "everywhere."

The motive behind the shooting remains unclear, and the investigation is ongoing.

Following the incident, the Seattle Center Monorail announced that services would remain suspended for the rest of Sunday and are expected to resume on Monday.