Latest News in Seattle, WA

Shellfish toxin found at Vashon-Maury beaches public warned, closures in effect

Paralytic shellfish poison (PSP) has been found at dangerous levels in Vashon-Maury Island's Quartermaster Harbor, prompting the Washington State Department of Health to ban recreational shellfish harvesting. Affected species include clams, geoduck, scallops, mussels, oysters, and snails, while crab remains permissible if cleaned properly. Public health officials will post advisory signs to warn the public against collecting shellfish.

New memorial honors Ethan Chapin as sentencing concludes in Kohberger case

A memorial for Ethan Chapin was unveiled at Tyler Amaya's gym as Brian Kohberger received four life sentences for the murders of Chapin and three other students. Chapin's legacy continues through community initiatives, including Hoop for the Valley, which has raised $20,000 for youth sports programs. The Chapin family chose to spend time together instead of attending the sentencing.

Brush fire in Bothell threatens homes, prompts emergency response

A brush fire in Bothell, Washington, threatened nearby homes on July 23, 2025. Firefighters from Snohomish Regional Fire & Rescue contained the blaze, which reached six feet high and was exacerbated by light winds. No structures were lost, and crews will remain on-site to monitor for flare-ups.

Real Time Crime Center 3

Seattle Mayor Harrell proposed enhancing public safety by adding surveillance cameras around Pike-Pine and Garfield High School. The initiative aims to bolster crime prevention efforts in the area.

Group proposes plan including park rangers and new signs to keep Denny Blaine open and nude

The Friends of Denny Blaine group urges Seattle officials to adopt a proposed abatement plan to address complaints about nudity and sexual activity at Denny Blaine Beach. The plan includes adding park rangers and new signage to clarify laws regarding public nudity. A court ruling has mandated the city to act within two weeks to formulate a response.

Mayor proposes adding SPD surveillance cameras around PikePine, Garfield High School

Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell proposes expanding surveillance cameras in the Capitol Hill nightlife district and around Garfield High School to enhance public safety. The initiative aims to address ongoing street crime and drug use issues, with the surveillance program integrating real-time data for crime analysis.

For first time since pandemic, King County Superior Court handled more than 5,000 criminal cases last year

King County Superior Court handled over 5,000 criminal cases in 2024, marking the highest total since the pandemic's onset. The backlog of pending cases remains significantly above pre-pandemic levels, largely due to increased crime rates and staffing shortages.

For First Time Since Pandemic, King County Superior Court Handled More Than 5,000 Criminal Cases Last Year

King County Superior Court managed over 5,000 criminal cases last year, marking a significant increase since the pandemic. This surge reflects the court's ongoing efforts to address the backlog caused by COVID-19 disruptions.

With a familiar name on the list, process begins to fill City Councils North Seattle seat

Debora Juarez, a former Seattle City Council member, is among six finalists to fill the District 5 seat following the resignation of Cathy Moore. Juarez, who has experience in district-based representation, will participate in an appointment forum, with interviews scheduled for July 22 and a vote on July 28. The council seeks a candidate who can secure a simple majority to fill the position until the 2026 election.

Northbound I-5 across Ship Canal Bridge reduced to 2 lanes for next 4 weeks

Northbound lanes of Interstate 5 across the Ship Canal Bridge in Seattle will be reduced to two lanes for four weeks starting July 21. Crews will conduct essential repairs on the aging bridge, which has seen over 200 emergency repairs since 2019. A full closure is scheduled for the weekend of August 15 to 18 as part of the ongoing maintenance.