Seattle Police Chief Shon Barnes has resigned from his position, Mayor Katie Wilson announced Thursday, just days after a deadly shooting at the popular Bite of Seattle food festival left two people dead and four others injured. The mayor's office confirmed that Wilson has accepted Barnes' letter of resignation.

Barnes, who was appointed chief in late 2024, stated through his attorney that Mayor Wilson requested his resignation during a meeting Wednesday, leading to his decision to step down. The chief expressed surprise at the mayor's request but believes his resignation is the most appropriate path forward for the city, which is still processing the aftermath of the tragic events at Seattle Center.

In a statement, Mayor Wilson expressed gratitude for Barnes' dedication and service to the department and the city. "The courage and professionalism that the officers of the Seattle Police Department showed deserves to be honored," Wilson said. She added that she shares Barnes' hope for a renewed focus on addressing youth gun violence and ensuring community safety across Seattle.

"The city’s focus should rightfully be on the investigation of the tragic events at the Seattle Center, justice for the victims, and healing the city from a senseless act of gun violence," Barnes said in his statement. He also conveyed that leading the Seattle Police Department and serving its citizens has been one of the greatest honors of his career.

Mayor Wilson plans to appoint Deputy Chief Andre Sayles as the interim chief of the Seattle Police Department. "My vision for public safety in this city is grounded in transparency, trust, and genuine collaboration with the community," Wilson stated, emphasizing that building trust requires the department to actively engage with residents and organizations.

The resignation follows a shooting that occurred on Sunday at the Bite of Seattle festival. Chief Barnes had described the incident as a targeted, gang-related gunfight that resulted in shots being fired into the crowd. He noted that all six victims were unrelated to the suspects involved.

Following the shooting, authorities arrested a 15-year-old suspect. A 19-year-old man, believed to be involved in the incident, has died, according to officials. The investigation into the shooting is ongoing, with the city now navigating a leadership change within its police department.

The incident and subsequent resignation raise questions about public safety strategies in Seattle and the path forward for the police department under new interim leadership as it seeks to address gun violence and rebuild community trust.