Seattle council members question mayor's request for police chief's resignation amid ongoing shooting investigation

Seattle City Council members voiced criticism on Thursday after Mayor Katie Wilson asked Police Chief Shon Barnes to step down while the department continues to investigate the mass shooting at the Bite of Seattle event. The mayor’s office later announced that Barnes had resigned and an interim chief was appointed.

Councilmember Rob Saka said the decision was not one he would have made "especially amid a tragedy" and emphasized that the city was still dealing with a crisis. Councilmember Eddie Lin expressed confidence that the assistant chief and the department could handle the ongoing investigation and upcoming public-safety events. Councilmember Joy Hollingsworth described the move as "irresponsible" and "reckless," adding that it placed the city in a difficult position.

Councilmember Maritza Rivera noted that rumors of Barnes’ dismissal had circulated for 24 hours without comment from the mayor and called the lack of communication "unacceptable." She highlighted Barnes’ record in community policing and praised the department’s response to recent violent incidents.

Councilmember Debora Juarez said she was more concerned about the mayor’s actions and the potential impact on city governance, describing a perceived lack of leadership. Councilmember Alexis Mercedes Rinck stressed the recent spate of gun violence, including the recent mass shooting, and called for collaborative leadership and improved communication among city officials.

Following the mayor’s announcement, Council President Joy Hollingsworth, along with Councilmembers Dan Strauss, Debora Juarez and Public Safety Chair Bob Kettle, issued a joint statement urging stability and clear leadership during the city’s public-safety challenges. They noted that Seattle has cycled through four police chiefs in two and a half years and emphasized the need for continuity.

Jon Scholes, president and CEO of the Downtown Seattle Association, said the city had been making progress on public safety and that the next police chief should maintain that momentum.

Washington Governor Bob Ferguson, while not directly involved, commented on the importance of cooperation between state and local law-enforcement leaders.

The council members’ statements were collected by KOMO News as the story developed.