Seattle police are actively investigating an incident involving an officer who discharged their weapon during a chase in Belltown, as reported by the Seattle Police Department Blotter. The confrontation took place on Friday afternoon when patrol officers attempted to apprehend a man suspected of drug dealing at the intersection of 2nd Avenue and Battery Street. The chase ended with the suspect drawing a handgun, prompting the officer to open fire, although the suspect was not hit and was apprehended soon after.
Upon the arrival of the Seattle Fire Department, the suspect was evaluated for reported chest pains before being cleared for transfer to King County Jail, pending their release from hospital care. The Force Investigation Team (FIT), along with the Office of Police Accountability and the Office of Inspector General, responded to the scene to begin an inquiry into the officer's use of force. The department intends to adhere to policy by placing the officer on administrative leave and committing to the release of video evidence within a stipulated 72-hour timeframe.
While the involved officer's name has not yet been released, updates on the case are to be expected as the investigation proceeds.
