Find Posts By Topic

Posts categorized under Public Safety Archives - Office of the Mayor

Mayoral Statement in Support of the Immigrant Community

To all of our immigrant neighbors: you belong in Seattle, and this is your city. Our values are clear: dignity, safety, and inclusion for every resident. In recent days, many of you have shared stories about rising intimidation and harassment directed at your communities. These incidents are affecting multiple immigrant… [ Keep reading ]

Mayor Wilson Announces Police Chief Search Advisory Committee

Seattle — Today, Mayor Katie B. Wilson announced the full membership of the Chief of Police Search Advisory Committee, bringing together community leaders, public safety professionals, labor representatives, business leaders, and advocates to help guide the search for Seattle’s next Chief of Police. “Choosing Seattle’s next Chief of Police is… [ Keep reading ]

Joint Statement from Mayor Katie Wilson and Interim Chief Andre Sayles

Our community deserves clarity and accountability, and we take that responsibility seriously. To meet that commitment, we have released text message communications related to the Bite of Seattle incident from both of our offices. Since the incident, we have been working collaboratively to build a stronger, more transparent communications strategy… [ Keep reading ]

Mayor Wilson Signs Executive Order to Improve Emergency Management, Information, and Preparedness

Seattle — Emergencies, serious incidents, and major events are disruptive and often unpredictable, and our city needs an updated approach to address today’s threats. Mayor Katie B. Wilson announced and signed an Executive Order today to enhance the City of Seattle’s emergency management systems, reduce vulnerabilities, and foster resilient communities… [ Keep reading ]

Mayor Wilson Announces New Approach to Reducing Gun Violence

A comprehensive, evidence-based plan to deliver results and save lives. Seattle –Gun violence takes lives, traumatizes neighborhoods, and demands a serious, coordinated response. Mayor Katie B. Wilson is delivering one today. “Seattle will not accept gun violence as inevitable, and neither will I,” said Mayor Wilson. “We have a… [ Keep reading ]

Mayor Wilson’s Statement on Recent Belltown Violence 

“What happened in Belltown this weekend is tragic and unacceptable. Three young people lost their lives, three others were seriously hurt, and countless neighbors were shaken awake by gunshots, street racing, sirens, or another painful headline in the paper. As your Mayor, as a mom, and simply a community member I take this incredibly seriously. We acknowledge… [ Keep reading ]

Mayor Wilson Announces Strengthened Public Safety Communication Practices 

SEATTLE — Mayor Katie Wilson today announced strengthened public safety communication practices for both the Mayor’s Office and the Seattle Police Department (SPD). The updated framework reinforces the City’s commitment to transparency, timely information, and clear departmental accountability during a critical transition period within SPD. The practices—some existing, some newly formalized—ensure consistent, coordinated communication… [ Keep reading ]

Mayor Wilson Launches Search for Seattle’s Next Police Chief

Seattle – Today, Mayor Katie Wilson launched the City of Seattle’s national search for a Chief of Police for the Seattle Police Department (SPD). “I am looking for a leader who understands that public safety starts with public trust. It is a trust that is earned every single day. Seattle’s… [ Keep reading ]

Mayor Wilson Asks City’s Inspector General to Review Public Information Response Following Bite of Seattle Shooting 

Mayor Katie Wilson has requested that the Office of Inspector General conduct an independent after-action review of the flow of public information following the July 26 mass shooting at the Bite of Seattle. The review will examine the timeline of public communications following the shooting, identify any delays and their causes, and produce recommendations where warranted to strengthen coordination and protocols… [ Keep reading ]

Mayor Wilson Announces Resignation of Chief Barnes and Appointment of Andre Sayles as Interim Chief

Press conference to be held 11am tomorrow SEATTLE, WA — Today, Mayor Katie B. Wilson accepted a letter of resignation from Seattle Police Chief Shon Barnes. Chief Barnes was appointed by Mayor Bruce Harrell in late 2024 and has made substantial contributions to public safety in Seattle. “It has been… [ Keep reading ]