Recent Seattle gun violence part of growing trend
Several shootings around Seattle over the past weekend are part of a growing trend, according to investigators.
The King County Prosecutor’s Office tracks gun violence and the number of shots fired every year. Analyst Rafael Serrano says most shootings involve people between the ages of 18 and 24. But this year has been different.
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“During the pandemic years, so 2020 and 2021, we saw increases in an older demographic, but this year is more pronounced, absolutely," Serrano said, noting that there are more shootings among older adults than before.
And also more guns fired during incidents of domestic violence.
“They’ve nearly doubled every year," Serrano said. "Last year was a record for us in terms of our total domestic violence related gun violence incidents and this year is on pace to pass that so far.”
One thing Serrano says is helping to prevent gun deaths is Washington’s red flag law, or "extreme risk protection orders." People can ask a judge to block someone from owning a gun who may be a risk to themselves or others.
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Casey Martin
Reporter
Casey Martin is a general assignment reporter who has covered everything from political protests to electric scooters. He is almost always out in the field where the news happens. Casey has reported on extremism, houselessness, politics and Seattle’s nightlife.
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