Seattle Police Chief Shon Barnes resigned Thursday following mounting criticism over the police department's response to a mass shooting at the Bite of Seattle food festival that left three people dead and four others injured. Mayor Katie Wilson accepted Barnes' resignation and named Deputy Chief Andre Sayles as interim police chief while the city begins a search for a permanent replacement. City officials said concerns centered on delays in providing information to the public after the shooting, despite officers responding quickly to the scene and taking one suspect into custody.

The shooting occurred Sunday evening at Seattle Center during the annual festival, where investigators believe multiple suspects exchanged gunfire in what police have described as a likely gang-related incident. A 15-year-old suspect was arrested, another suspected gunman was killed, and investigators continue searching for at least one additional suspect. Among the injured was a 2-year-old child. The attack prompted renewed debate over public safety at large community events and the city's emergency communication procedures.