A teen is in critical condition after a drive-by shooting in Seattle on Friday, according to the Seattle Police Department. Officers responded to reports of shots fired, found the injured teen and began an investigation that police say is still in its early stages as detectives work through initial leads.
In a post on X from the Seattle Police Department, officials said the incident "left a teen in critical condition" and cautioned that the information is preliminary and may change. The post also reminded the public that the account is not monitored and urged anyone with emergency information to call 911.
Drive-by shooting leaves teen in critical condition. Preliminary info subject to change.
— Seattle Police Department (@SeattlePD) May 9, 2026
Detectives Working Multiple Scenes After Drive-By Attack
Detectives with the Gun Violence Reduction Unit have been assigned to the case and are processing evidence at multiple scene locations, according to Seattle police. The department has recently handled similar drive-by cases, including one described in a Seattle Police Department blotter entry where officers recovered dozens of shell casings and urged the public to contact the Violent Crimes Tip Line at 206-233-5000.
What The Law Says About Drive-By Shootings
Under Washington state law, drive-by shooting is a class B felony. The law defines it as recklessly discharging a firearm from or near a motor vehicle. The statute is laid out in RCW 9A.36.045, which specifies the elements of the crime and the possible penalties.
How Witnesses Can Help Investigators
Anyone who witnessed the shooting or who has any video, including dashcam, doorbell or other surveillance footage, is asked to contact police. For emergencies people should call 911. To submit tips or share footage with investigators, Seattle police ask the public to use the Violent Crimes Tip Line at 206-233-5000.
This remains an active and developing investigation, and more information is expected as Seattle Police release additional updates. Officials are asking residents to use official phone tip lines, not social media accounts, to share any evidence or leads with detectives.
