A 17-year-old student has died after being shot outside Garfield High School in Seattle on Thursday afternoon. The victim, who has not been identified, was attempting to break up a fight when he was shot multiple times.
Seattle, WA – A 17-year-old student has died after being shot outside Garfield High School on Thursday afternoon.
The shooting happened around 12:30 p.m. local time as students were still inside the school. According to Seattle Police Deputy Chief Eric Barden, an altercation took place between some high school-aged students, and the victim tried to intervene.
"One of the original combatants approached the victim and an additional altercation broke out and the suspect produced a weapon and fired multiple rounds at our victim," Barden said.
The suspect fled the scene and remains at large. Police are working to identify the suspect, who is believed to be another high school-aged male.
The victim was struck multiple times by gunfire and was taken to a local hospital, where he later died from his injuries.
The school district decided to do a staggered release of students following the shooting. All students were safely released from the school.
The Seattle Police Department's homicide unit is investigating the shooting.
"I am heartbroken by the tragic death of a 17-year-old student at Garfield High School today. This senseless act of violence has no place in our community. My thoughts are with the victim's family and friends during this difficult time."
"We are deeply saddened by the loss of one of our students today. Our hearts go out to the victim's family and friends. We are working with the Seattle Police Department to investigate this incident and ensure the safety of our students."
