Seattle, July 27 (SANA)Three people were killed and several others injured in a shooting nearSeattle’s Space Needleduring the annualBite of Seattlefood festival on Sunday, according to the city’s fire department.

SeattleMayor Katie Wilson said one suspect was taken into custody following the shooting at Seattle Center, while Seattle Police Assistant Chief Tyrone Davis said a second suspect fled the scene and remained at large. He added that authorities believe the suspects were shooting at each other.

Two people were killed at the scene and a third died later in hospital. The injured included a two-year-old boy, officials said.

Videos shared online showed people taking shelter inside the Space Needle, with visitors seen crouching and taking cover in the landmark’s lobby during the shooting.

The Seattle Police Department said the investigation was ongoing and urged the public to avoid the area.

Wilson thanked police officers who responded to the scene and condemned the shooting as an “act of horrific violence,” saying the community was struggling to understand how a gathering “built around culture, connection, and joy ended in gunfire.”

WashingtonGovernor Bob Ferguson said on social media: “My prayers are with the families of the victims, and the responders as they work to keep people safe.”

US Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal also expressed condolences, saying: “Our hearts go out to all those impacted by this senseless violence.”

The Seattle Fire Department said four of the injured were taken to hospital in stable condition, while a fifth person declined medical treatment.