Suspect charged with murder in shooting over scooter at 12th and Spruce encampment

In a troubling incident at a homeless encampment in Seattle, 30-year-old William Bender has been charged with second-degree murder following the fatal shooting of 38-year-old Carl Hatfield. The altercation reportedly arose over an electric scooter, which Hatfield allegedly took from Bender, leading to a confrontation. Witnesses indicated that Hatfield was shot in the back while riding the scooter after a dispute over a stolen phone. Bender, who has a lengthy criminal record including burglary and domestic violence, is being held on a $2 million bail in King County Jail. The police investigation included acquiring security video from the area, and it was revealed that at least one witness was paid $50 for their testimony, raising ethical questions about witness reliability.

This incident, occurring early in the morning, underscores the ongoing issues of violence and crime within Seattle's encampments, amplifying public safety concerns. As the city continues to address homelessness, this case reflects the broader societal implications of such disputes. The community is left grappling with the ramifications of this violence and its impact on public perception of safety in the area.