Three people were the target of gun violence this weekend while inside the protest zone in Capitol Hill called CHOP. One teenager died from his injuries.
After the violence over the weekend, elected leaders and first-responders warn dispatching first-aid inside the protest zone can be tricky.
While the Seattle Fire Department is used to running towards danger, a spokesperson insists exceptionally dangerous incidents like the shootings that unfolded this weekend, require department medics to first wait for police officers to first secure the scene.
Monday morning city council members reacted to the violence and Seattle Mayor Jenny Durkan announced in a statement that while daytime activities remained peaceful, the reality after sundown changed drastically.
“We want to make sure firefighters and EMT’s have access to do their jobs,” said Councilmember Teresa Mosqueda. “That is critical.”