Seattle police arrested two teenage boys after a shooting in the Mount Baker neighborhood on Wednesday afternoon, and investigators are continuing efforts to identify and locate other individuals believed to be involved.
Officers responded shortly before 1:00 p.m. to reports of gunfire in the 3300 block of Wetmore Avenue South. When police arrived, they found several spent shell casings at the scene. Witnesses told officers they saw two teenagers running away, prompting a quick search that led to both suspects being detained nearby.
During the arrest, officers recovered a handgun fitted with an extended magazine and an illegal conversion device commonly known as a “switch,” which can allow a firearm to fire automatically. Authorities said the weapon is a significant concern because such modifications greatly increase the potential danger during shootings.
Preliminary findings indicate the two teens exchanged gunfire with at least two other people who left the area before police arrived. A K9 team searched surrounding streets and nearby properties, but the additional suspects were not located. Detectives say the search remains active.
The boys, ages 16 and 17, were taken into custody on suspicion of unlawful firearm possession. Police said both teens have prior felony records and are legally prohibited from carrying guns due to their age and criminal history. They were booked into juvenile detention at the Judge Patricia H. Clark Children & Family Justice Center.
As officers secured the area and conducted their investigation, nearby schools implemented safety protocols. Franklin High School was placed on lockdown, while John Muir Elementary School initiated a shelter-in-place order and adjusted student dismissal procedures. School officials later confirmed that no students or staff were injured.
Seattle Public Schools stated the precautionary measures were taken out of an abundance of caution while police worked in the neighborhood. Classes resumed normal operations after authorities determined there was no immediate threat to campus safety.
Police say cases involving modified firearms are becoming more common across Seattle and other major U.S. cities, with law enforcement highlighting the growing presence of auto sear devices in youth-related gun incidents. The Gun Violence Reduction Unit is now leading the investigation into this case.
Investigators are working to determine what led to the confrontation, whether the individuals involved knew each other, and if gang or retaliation factors played a role. Detectives are also reviewing surveillance footage from nearby homes and businesses and speaking with additional witnesses.
Community leaders in the Mount Baker area expressed concern about gun violence occurring near schools during daytime hours. Local safety advocates continue to call for stronger prevention efforts, youth intervention programs, and increased enforcement targeting illegal firearm modifications.
Authorities urge anyone with information about the shooting or the outstanding suspects to contact the Seattle Police Department’s Violent Crimes Tip Line at 206-233-5000. Tips can be submitted anonymously.
The investigation remains ongoing, and police say additional arrests are possible as detectives gather more evidence.