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New Delhi: Two people were killed and five others were injured after a shooting erupted during the annual Bite of Seattle food festival at Seattle Center, near the city’s iconic Space Needle, on Sunday evening, triggering panic among thousands of festival-goers.

The shooting occurred at around 6 p.m. local time as the three-day food festival was underway. The Seattle Fire Department confirmed that two victims died at the scene despite life-saving efforts by first responders, while five others were taken to hospital with gunshot wounds. Among the injured is a two-year-old child.

In an initial statement 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 later cordoned off the area as investigators searched for evidence and interviewed witnesses. As of Sunday night, police had not announced any arrests or identified a suspect or motive. The FBI said it was aware of the incident and was coordinating with local authorities if needed.

Witnesses described scenes of panic as hundreds of people ran for safety after hearing a rapid burst of gunfire. Videos circulating on social media showed festival attendees taking cover behind stalls and barricades while police officers rushed into the venue.

Harborview Medical Center received several of the injured victims. According to hospital officials, those admitted included a toddler, a 23-year-old man and two adult women, with at least one victim initially reported to be in critical condition. Authorities have not yet released the identities of the deceased.

The shooting took place during the Bite of Seattle, one of the city’s largest annual festivals, which attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors over three days. Held at Seattle Center, the event features hundreds of food vendors, live music performances and family-friendly attractions, drawing both locals and tourists every summer.

The investigation remains ongoing, with detectives reviewing surveillance footage and collecting witness statements to determine what led to the shooting. Police have urged anyone with information or videos from the scene to come forward.