Xian Zhang has become the Seattle Symphony’s first female music director, leading programs at Benaroya Hall and shaping a season that mixes core repertoire with new commissions. Her appointment is being viewed as a milestone for representation in classical leadership.

Kirkland police executed search warrants at three businesses and arrested two people in a probe into suspected human trafficking and promoting prostitution.

A suspect accused of shooting a toddler was released from custody as raw video circulated, drawing fresh attention and questions about pretrial rules.

Federal Way is moving to limit hours, require visible licenses and bar cash at massage businesses as the city targets suspected sex-for-pay operations. The council will consider a new ordinance this week.

A fin whale washed ashore near Samish Island and NOAA and partners are conducting a necropsy. The species is an uncommon visitor to the Salish Sea.

A Federal Way man died after a shooting; Spokane police arrested a business associate and turned him over to King County authorities.

The Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County apologized after a dog in its care was involved in a fatal incident at the Tacoma City Marathon; the shelter says a full review is underway.

Tacoma’s parks director resigned as the district confronts a roughly $7 million operating shortfall, nearly 50 layoffs and looming service cuts. A May 18 public meeting will weigh the options.

Masked, armed suspects robbed a West Seattle 7‑Eleven Monday night and fled with about $200 while police investigate. Detectives are asking witnesses to come forward.

Maersk filed WARN notices saying it will close its Lakewood warehouse on June 30 and phase layoffs at Sumner, affecting 49 local jobs across two Puget Sound sites.

A planned midday prescribed burn at Joint Base Lewis‑McChord is producing visible smoke over the South Sound. Crews plan to burn from 12–4 p.m.; report nuisance smoke to 253‑912‑2049.

Prosecutors say a King County man drained his 91‑year‑old grandmother’s IRA and was sentenced to 24 months after a jury found he stole nearly $500,000.

Seattle Fire crews responded to a rope-rescue at Discovery Park on Sunday and urged visitors to avoid the 3800 block while crews worked.