Seattle police chief Shon Barnes has been fired amid scrutiny on his response to a tragic mass shooting in the city last week, reports say. 

Barnes was dismissed by Seattle’s socialist mayor Katie Wilson on Wednesday evening, sources told Fox13. 

He had been criticized for not being in Seattle when three people were shot dead on Friday night at a food festival, before he was filmed squaring up to a reporter when he was questioned over his absence. 

Wilson has not commented publicly on her reasons for dismissing Barnes. The chief had led the Seattle Police Department since January 2025.

The police chief had reportedly been scheduled to give several media interviews on Wednesday evening, but the appearances were abruptly cancelled. 

Hours later, he was seen at a silent vigil for the victims of Friday’s shooting, and sources reportedly said he was fired by Wilson at a meeting soon after he left the memorial service. 

This is a breaking news story and will be updated as information is confirmed.  

Seattle police chief Shon Barnes has been fired amid scrutiny on his response to a tragic shooting in the city last week