West Seattle, Washington
30 Thursday
Just announced by SDOT, a two-day closure of the West Seattle “low bridge” – officially the Spokane Street Swing Bridge – to drivers during the weekend of May 16 and 17. Here’s the announcement we just received:
Starting Saturday, May 16 and continuing through Sunday, May 17, 2026, the South Spokane Swing Bridge (also called The Low Bridge) will be closed to all vehicle traffic for the weekend. However, people on bicycles and walking will still be able to use the bridge, with possible delays associated with bridge openings for boat passage and as part of the maintenance work. During this time, crews will replace the tail lock cylinder, motor, and hydraulic pump.
(SDOT photo: Tail lock shaft on the approach-bridge side that is extended into the swing span to lock the structure together)
What you need to know:
The bridge was built in 1991 and serves as a crucial link across the West Duwamish Waterway, especially for people walking, rolling, and biking.
Planning, design, and construction for the initial phase of the Spokane St Swing Bridge Rehabilitation Program took place from 2020 to 2022.
The work taking place May 2026 will be to replace the motor, pump, and tail lock cylinder on the west side of the bridge. … Work on this project, which includes other ongoing maintenance, is expected to continue throughout 2026.
We checked in with SDOT three weeks ago for an overview on work like this that’s still on the way.
(Photos courtesy Desmond Hansen)
By Tracy Record
West Seattle Blog editor
One month after we reported on the paintout of the “West Side Wall” murals on the west and north sides of the CVS store lot south of The Junction, the art wall’s comeback is confirmed.
That’s the word this morning from West Seattle artist Desmond Hansen, who had overseen the project to permit artists – himself included – to use the extensive retaining wall as a canvas. This was all approved by the lot’s previous tenant, Rite Aid, as we reported in 2023. Since then, the store has been taken over by CVS, to whom somebody complained to the city, which told CVS it had to go, and since CVS had no knowledge of the artist’s agreement with Rite Aid – it wasn’t in writing – away it went.
Once Hansen found out, as he told us when we talked for the March 31 WSB story, he vowed to do whatever it took to bring back the “West Side Wall.” He said CVS was supportive, and they indicated the same thing when we contacted a corporate spokesperson. Now, it’s official: “We have official permission to continue painting at the ‘West Side Wall’ now. So we are planning a painting mini-festival for mid to late May to reboot and kick it off officially.”
Hansen is also hoping to crowdfund for more signs like this:
And he told us via email that he’s already done preparation work
“We are very excited that the city and CVS have been so apologetic and supportive. Any comments, questions or concerns can be emailed to westsidewall26@gmail.com
Soon we will organize a gofundme campaign to cover the costs of making more signage and if we raise enough we will possibly be able to establish a couple garbage cans for repeat disposal of any paint cans and litter. I personally spent 3 days down there revitalizing the wall [top photo], pulling weeds and landscaping. I filled 27 bags with yard waste and rented a U-haul to take it all to the dump.”
(We also noticed while passing through the area that some advance art is already painted halfway down the alley.)
The arrival of warm weather means the start of construction season for utility and street projects. King County Wastewater Treatment just reminded us that work starts tomorrow on the next phase of a repair project involving the underground pump station at Lowman Beach and adjacent pipes. If you’ve been to the Lowman Beach area lately, you might have noticed crews staging:
King County is rebuilding a damaged sewer pipe to maintain reliable sewer service for West Seattle residents near Lowman Beach Park and protect public health and Puget Sound.
The Murray Pump Station has two pressurized sewer pipes, also known as force mains. These pipes run parallel under Beach Drive Southwest and help move sewage to West Point Treatment Plant, where it is cleaned and safely discharged into Puget Sound. In March 2022, one of the pressurized pipes broke due to severe corrosion. King County repaired about 800 feet of the damaged pipe at that time. This project will repair the remaining 350 feet of damaged pipe and install two air valves to help reduce pipe corrosion in the repaired pipe.
This work needs to occur during the dry season when wastewater flows are lower. Road and park restoration will occur in fall 2026 after the pipe is rebuilt.
What to expect during construction:
-No interruption to wastewater service.
-One-lane alternating traffic on Beach Drive SW, with steel plates in the road. Bicyclists should use extreme caution passing through the work area.
-Lowman Beach Park playground, beach and sidewalks will remain open during construction
KCWTD spokesperson Akiko Oda also tells us, “Starting in June, crews will also repair sewer pipeline on Beach Drive SW. During this work, signs will be posted indicating that some street parking will be reserved for construction use. We’ll share more details as we get closer.”
(WSB’s Anne Higuera photographed West Seattle from the sky on Wednesday)
Here are highlights for today/tonight, from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar (where you’ll find even more – thanks again to everyone who sends events for us to share!):
FOOD CELEBRATION AT SOUTH SEATTLE COLLEGE: Happening now! But you can still get there for the 10:30 am-12:30 pm food-for-sale pop-up, and the 12:30 pm baking competition – details in our preview.
FREE PLAYSPACE: Church of the Nazarene‘s free drop-in space is open until noon. (42nd SW and SW Juneau)
SOUTH SEATTLE COLLEGE GARDEN CENTER: Whether you’re planting or planning – the center is open Thursdays-Saturdays 10 am-3 pm – north end of the South Seattle College (6000 16th SW; WSB sponsor) campus..
WEST SEATTLE UKULELE PLAYERS: From newbie to pro, all levels welcome at this weekly 1 pm gathering. Email westseattleukuleleplayerswsup@gmail.com to see where they’re playing today. (Even if you just want to know so you can go listen!) Often C & P Coffee, we’re told (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor)
HIGH-SCHOOL SPORTS: One big game on the Metro League schedule today. At 4 pm, Chief Sealth IHS and West Seattle HS face off in softball at Nino Cantu SW Athletic Complex (2801 SW Thistle).
DROP-IN CHESS: For young players, 4 pm at High Point Library (3411 SW Raymond).
PRIDE FAMILY BOOK CLUB: 4:30 pm at White Center Library (1409 SW 107th)
MAY DAY EVE DEMONSTRATION: West Seattle Indivisible members will be out at Fauntleroy/Alaska 4:30-6 pm.
HPCS FOOD-TRUCK VISIT: First of two Thursday night events at HPCS this week – every Thursday, 4-8 pm, Highland Park Corner Store (7789 Highland Park Way SW) gets a food-truck visit. Tonight it’s El Gran Taco.
WINE TASTING WITH CLARK: Another regular Thursday event at HPCS, 5-7:30 pm – info here.
‘THE LION KING’ AT OLG: Two performances of this year’s musical, 5 and 7:30 pm, community invited to the student show! At the Walmesley Center (35th/Myrtle).
HELP HARVEST FOOD: Puget Ridge Edible Park (18th/Brandon) needs volunteers to help harvest fresh food that will be donated to food banks (and you can take some home too). Just be there 5-7 pm!
WEST SEATTLE TOOL LIBRARY: Open 5-8 pm for your tool-borrowing needs. (4408 Delridge Way SW, northeast side of Youngstown Cultural Arts Center)
VISCON CELLARS: This West Seattle winery’s friendly tasting room/wine bar is open Thursdays, 5-9 pm (5910 California SW; WSB sponsor), for wine by the glass or bottle!
TOAST TO TR: 5:30 pm fundraiser for Transitional Resources, at The Georgetown Stables (98 S. Nebraska).
LISTENING PARTIES AT EASY STREET: Two tonight in-store – Kacey Musgraves at 5:30 pm, Kneecap at 7 pm, free, all ages. (4559 California SW)
SINGING RESISTANCE ON MAY DAY EVE: Potluck and park sing – gather at 6 pm at Elizabeth House (3201 SW Graham).
POKEMON LEAGUE: 6 pm Thursdays at Fourth Emerald Games (4517 California SW, upstairs) – bring your own console.
WESTIES RUN CLUB: 6 pm, starting from Good Society (California SW and SW Lander), you’re welcome to join the Westies Run Club‘s Thursday night community run!
WALKING FOR WELL-BEING: If you’d rather walk, meet at 6 pm at 47th/Fontanelle for tonight’s group walk – details in our calendar listing.
DUSTY THURSDAYS AT TIM’S: 6-9 pm, The Dusty 45s preceded by Evan Wallace, outdoors, all ages, no cover, donations accepted for the musicians. (16th SW and SW 98th, White Center)
MORBIDLY CURIOUS BOOK CLUB: 7 pm at Jet City Labs (4547 California SW), discussing “Madame Restell.”
PINBALL TOURNAMENT: Monthly pinball tournament tonight tonight at 7 pm at Admiral Pub (2306 California SW).
TRIVIA NIGHT AT THE VOID: One of the newest West Seattle trivia nights! 7:30 pm, with prizes, at The Void (5048 California SW).
‘WALDEN’ AT ARTSWEST: Closing week begins at 7:30 pm for ArtsWest‘s current play. (4711 California SW)
AT REVELRY ROOM: Music happens tonight at Revelry Room (4547 California SW) – it’s BYO Vinyl Night starting at 8 pm. 21+.
Are you planning an event that should be on our calendar and in our daily preview lists? Please email info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
The future Morgan Junction Park Addition site – north of the current park – is now open to the community as an open grassy spot, after Seattle Parks removed the fencing that’s been protecting the site while the grass grew. Meantime the Morgan Junction All-Wheels Association, which has been advocating for a “skatedot” – sort of a mini skatepark – at the site is gathering support to ensure it stays in the project. Here’s the design – with the “skatedot” actually incorporated into the original park site – as shown at the Morgan Community Association gathering two weeks ago:
Next step, according to MJAWA, is a community meeting to present the current design, and though it hasn’t yet been formally announced by Seattle Parks, they’re asking supporters to save the date for 5:30 pm May 13 at The Kenney (7125 Fauntleroy Way SW)
6:03 AM: Good morning! Welcome to Thursday, April 30, 2026.
WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET
Increasing clouds, high near 70. Sunrise was at 5:53 am; sunset will be at 8:20 pm.
(Wednesday photo by Bob Burns)
TRANSIT TODAY
Metro buses – Regular schedules.
West Seattle Water Taxi – Now on “summer” schedule, with extra Friday/Saturday/Sunday runs including later-night schedules Fridays and Saturdays.
Washington State Ferries – Fauntleroy/Vashon/Southworth route still on a two-boat schedule with a third, unscheduled boat, until this Saturday, per WSF’s alert page. That’s also where you’ll find a summary of fare changes starting tomorrow (Friday, May 1). And note work at the Fauntleroy dock this week is now expected to continue into next week.
SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS
High Bridge – Here’s the main camera, followed by the Fauntleroy-end camera:
Low Bridge – Here’s the westward view. Also note, maritime-opening info is available via X (ex-Twitter):
1st Avenue South Bridge (25 mph speed limit):
Delridge cameras: In addition to the one below (Delridge/Genesee), cameras are also at Delridge/Juneau, Delridge/Henderson, Delridge/Oregon, and video-only (so you have to go to the map), Delridge/Holden and Delridge/Thistle.
MORE TRAFFIC CAMS: All functioning traffic cams citywide are here (including links to live video for most); for a quick scan of West Seattle and vicinity-relevant cameras, see this WSB page.
See trouble on the bridges/streets/paths/water? Please text or call our hotline (when you can do it safely, and after you’ve reported to authorities if they’re not already on scene) – 206-293-6302. Thank you!
(WSB photos)
What a day for a field trip! More than 30 students from Pathfinder K-8 spent the morning at and near Longfellow Creek, starting from Dragonfly Pavilion in North Delridge.. They were split into groups for a variety of outdoor-learning activities, led by environmental educators from DNDA, and while the Salmon Bone Bridge (above) is the most scenic, that’s not where the major excitement was:
Another bridge a short distance south was set up with a sort of slide into which Pathfinder students released some of the coho they’ve been raising as part of the Salmon in the Schools program. That’s long been focused on Fauntleroy Creek, but as we’ve reported previously, culvert work starts this year so some of the release activities are moaving to Longfellow Creek instead. The release terrain isn’t conducive to getting close to the creek, so it’s down the chute with the fish:
At other stations along the creek, the students learned today about how to making the water safer for salmon – hearing about pollutants like tire dust and fertilizers. DNDA’s environmental-education coordinator Mikaela Ebbeson tells WSB this was the third of four field trips as part of their pilot program. partnering with Salmon in the Schools and Seattle Public Utilities.
Starting Monday, Seattle Public Schools will implement a new cell-phone policy for students. According to the announcement sent tonight, it boils down to:
Grade Span-Specific Rules
“Off and Away for the Day” Rule in Grades K–8: Phones are off and stored away for the full school day, with no access during instruction, passing periods, or lunch.
“No Cell Bell to Bell” Rule in Grades 9–12: Phones are off and away during all instructional time. Students may have limited access during lunch and passing periods, supporting responsible device use and digital citizenship while keeping phones out of the classroom.
Exceptions: Students who require access to personal devices for medical needs or as part of a documented IEP or Section 504 accommodation will continue to be supported.
The announcement notes some schools already have strict phone policies; Chief Sealth International High School launched one in 2023.
Washington State Ferries has been saying it expected the Fauntleroy-Vashon-Southworth run to return to three-boat service in “late April.” It’s missing that by just a couple days; WSF announced today that full service will resume on the route this Saturday, May 2.
That’s a screenshot from the charging documents we just received from the King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, which announced that the suspect in Saturday’s Gatewood kidnap attempt, 22-year-old Cristien X. Bugge-Marcum, is now charged:
This afternoon, the King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office charged a 22-year-old Seattle man with Attempted Kidnapping in the Second Degree following a West Seattle incident. The defendant remains in jail on the $750,000 bail set by a judge.
The defendant’s next court date is his arraignment, where an initial plea is entered. That’s scheduled for 8:30 a.m. Monday, May 4, in courtroom 1201 of the King County Courthouse. Defendants are innocent until proven guilty in court.
We’ll add narrative from the charging document shortly.
4:09 PM: Here’s the narrative, with redactions. It says Bugge-Marcum is originally from Sequim-Port Angeles, with a recent address in Northgate, but was in Gatewood last weekend staying with friends close to where this happened:
The juvenile victim is identified as (victim). The juvenile witness is identified as (witness). The following information is from the victim, witnesses, and from Cristien X. Bugge-Marcum.
On 4/25/2026 at approximately 1359 hours, officers were dispatched to (xxx) SW Othello St to investigate a report of an attempted kidnapping. The call notes read as follows:
“GROUP OF NEIGHBORHOOD CHILDREN PLAYING IN RP’S YARD, AND 8 YO FEMALE JUST TOLD RP A MALE SUSP TRIED TO GRAB HER ARM AND TAKE HER. SUSP LOCATION UNKNOWN.” (Third person) is the owner of the (XXX) SW Othello St residential home. He called 9-1-1. (Fourth person) lives at (another address on) SW Othello st. Her daughter is (friend, who) was at the neighbor’s house playing with other neighborhood kids. At 1343 hours, (xx) told (XX) to return home for lunch.She got this precise time by checking her doorbell camera which captured when she exited her front door. After going back into her home, she heard her dogs barking at someone walking eastbound past her house and on the south sidewalk. She looked outside and observed a white male carrying a skateboard walking past her house.
(Fifth person) lives at (XXX) SW Othello Way which is three houses east of the scene. (He) showed officers his surveillance footage. In the video, dogs are heard barking at 1:47:02 PM, a shrill scream is heard at 1:47:08 PM, a noise similar to skateboard wheels on a hard surface is heard at 1:47:29 PM, an object crashing on the ground is heard at 1:47:34 PM, a voice is heard yelling something unintelligible at 1:47:39 PM, a male enters the frame on the camera at 1:47:42 PM and is walking eastbound on the south sidewalk. The unknown male continued walking eastbound down the sidewalk and out of frame. In the footage, the only person observed was a white male with short hair wearing a white t-shirt, dark colored backpack, a skateboard in his left hand, black and white shoes, jean shorts that either sagged down near his ankles or were just long jean shorts.
(Victim) is eight years old and lives at (XXX) 36th Ave SW. On 4/25/26 she was playing with friends outside of (XXX) SW Othello st. At one point, she was outside alone and seated on a tree stump. The tree stump is about 35-40 feet away from the sidewalk and near the front of the house. She was looking into the open door of the home while waiting for her friend … to finish playing a game inside and join her outside.
During (victim)’s Child Forensic Interview (CFI) on 4/28/26, she stated the following:
While she was outside, a “guy” walked by with a skateboard and a backpack. She believed he was
wearing a black sweatshirt, but she thought nothing of it. She stated that 5 minutes later, that same
person grabbed her arm and tried to drag her away. (victim) stated that she screamed. When (Friend) came
to door after she heard her scream, the suspect ran behind the house and ran away.(victim) stated that she could not see the suspect’s hair and could not see if it was a male or a female but saw their blue/green eyes.
(victim) said that she could feel the suspect squeezing her arm and felt pressure. She saw the suspect’s skateboard and backpack on the ground when he was trying to drag her away. The suspect did not saying anything to her.
(victim) stated she was so scared her teeth were chattering and thought that she could have been killed. (friend) is 9-years old. (She) was inside the home when she heard (victim) scream. She looked outside and observed the unknown male pulling (victim) away. She described the male pulling (victim) with one hand while holding a knife in his other hand. (Friend) went inside and told another child what was happening who then relayed to an adult what was happening. When (friend) went back outside the unknown male was no longer in front of the home. She observed (victim) crying near the house.
Friend demonstrated the male pulling (victim) about 5-6 feet and away from the home.
On (Sunday) at approximately 1249 hours Bugge-Marcum was observed in the area of 36 Ave SW/SW Orchard St by officers. He matched the description of the surveillance footage seen by officers. Bugge-Marcum was contacted and taken into custody. He was transported to SPD Headquarters.
Bugge-Marcum was read his Miranda Rights and stated in a recorded interview that he has been living at the accessory dwelling unit at (XXX) SW Othello St for approximately one week with his friends … who he is in a “situationship” with. He is originally from Sequim/Port Angeles area.
Bugge-Marcum stated that on 4/25/26 he slept in and stayed …’s residence until approximately 1300 hours. He left to assist his mother with groceries and arrived at his parent’s house at approximately 1400 hours. He went shopping in Northgate at approximately 1600 hours. He returned to his parents’ house at approximately 1700 hours. He took a nap and left his parents’ house at approximately 2000 hours. He stated that he did not return to West Seattle until 0100
hours on 4/26/26.Bugge-Marcum stated that on 4/25/26 he was wearing jorts, a green zip up or a white Adidas zip up, a white t-shirt, and black and white sneakers, he was carrying a blue backpack and his skateboard. He had his cell phone on him and stated it was an android. Bugge-Marcum stated that the people in the neighborhood are uptight. He said he got in trouble
for smoking in the neighborhood and as a result, he walks eastbound on Othello St from …’s residence and then northbound on 36th Ave SW to the water towers to smoke. He thinks the neighbors might have pinned whatever happened on him.Bugge-Marcum provided an outline of his route on 4/25/26. He walked eastbound from ….’s to 36th Ave SW, then southbound to SW Webster St, then northbound on 35th Ave SW to the bus stop on the east side of 35th Ave SW. He stated that he did not see a single person when he was walking on SW Othello St. He said he went straight to the bus stop.
Bugge-Marcum denied touching anyone and said nothing out of the ordinary happened.
The updated police report included with the charging document says his “last known address” is in the Northgate area. The charging papers also confirm what we had noted in research, that he “no known WA criminal history.”
1:52 PM: Police have told dispatch that Delridge is currently blocked both ways at Henderson by the response for what was reported as a driver/scooter rider collision. The rider, described as in his mid-60s, was injured. No other details but avoid the area for a while.
2:01 PM: Short-lived closure – officers say Delridge is now open again both ways. We’ll check with SFD on the rider’s condition.
3:27 PM: SFD tells us the 64-year-old rider was taken to the hospital by AMR ambulance, in stable condition.
PHOTOS BY OLIVER HAMLIN FOR WEST SEATTLE BLOG
Chief Sealth International High School senior baseball players Carmelo Dictado (manager), Mason Filitaula, Graham Hull, Sam Popelka, Nevin Pivar, and Julian Reinhardt (shown above) were celebrated at the Seahawks’ last regular-season home game Tuesday. But that wasn’t the team and supporters’ only reason to celebrate the game vs. Seattle Christian at Nino Cantu Southwest Athletic Complex.
That’s the game-end jubilation after a walk-off win, 4-3 photojournalist Oliver Hamlin reports:
Chief Sealth won, 4-3. CSHS put up three runs in the second inning and held Seattle Christian scoreless until the 6th inning. Seattle Christian tied it up in the 6th before walking it off in the bottom of the 7th.
Nolan VanBuskirk (above) led off the 7th inning with a triple.
Seattle Christian intentionally walked the next two batters before unintentionally walking Oliver Clark (above with Coach Ernest Policarpio) for the walk-off.
Sam Popelka (above) pitched six innings, giving up three runs while striking out 10.
More photos from the game:
(Jaxton Daily gets a hit in the first inning)
(Bodhi Smith gets a hit in the second inning)
(Graham Hull slides into third base)
(Nevin Pivar gets a hit in the third inning)
(Julian Reinhardt throws to first base)
ADDED 3:37 PM: The Seahawks are 12-9, second in their division. Playoffs start next week.
Work on the trestle of the Fauntleroy ferry dock was scheduled for just this week, but Washington State Ferries sent word today that it’ll go through next week:
Thanks for your patience as we carry out the repair work on the transfer span at the Fauntleroy ferry terminal. The repair work is going well, but it is expected to take a bit longer. Crews expect to wrap up on Friday, May 8. Work hours remain the same.
WSF says the work does not require a barge or crane.
A West Seattle woman’s grandson has been sentenced to prison for stealing half a million dollars from her. According to court documents, the thefts happened at multiple times and in multiple ways between 2020 and 2022. The convicted thief, 33-year-old Forrest W. Strong of Gold Bar, is the only grandson of the 90-year-old victim, an Alki resident. Here’s what the King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office announced today about the case:
Forrest Strong has been sentenced for stealing $500,000+ from his grandmother. This followed a jury trial that ended in March of this year, in which he was convicted of 1 count of Theft 1 and 5 counts of Theft 2 (all counts with a Major Economic Offense aggravator).
Strong was charged with theft by deception, a unique and difficult charge to prove at trial. The victim’s dementia had progressed such that she was unable to testify, so we were left with statements she had made to her son about her finances, as well as her check registry and text messages between herself and the defendant for a few months of the charging period to establish what her intent had been as to her finances. The jury found that Strong deceived his grandmother both as to his need for money (he often had more in the bank than she did) and as to the uses of the money he was asking her for (he said he needed gas money or a car part but he really used it on other things).
Given that he had no previous criminal history, under the sentencing ranges set by state lawmakers, Strong faced facing 14-18 months on the underlying charges, as well as additional time on the aggravators. King County Prosecutors asked for the high end of 18 months, plus an additional 12 months on the aggravators for a total of 30 months, and the court sentenced him to 24 months.
According to court documents, Superior Court Judge Samuel Chung presided at Strong’s sentencing.
(SPD photo, November 2022)
Three and a half years after a deadly shooting at a house on Puget Ridge (here’s our report from the night it happened), investigators say they’ve solved it. Here’s the announcement we received this morning from the U.S. Attorney’s Office:
Two men who traveled to Seattle from Texas to rob a marijuana dealer in November 2022, were indicted this week by the federal grand jury for additional federal felonies connected to the robbery and fatal shooting in West Seattle, announced First Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Neil Floyd.
Carlton Pierre Mitchell, 30, and Aaron Thompson, 42, will be arraigned on the superseding indictment on May 7, 2026. The men are charged with conspiracy to possess marijuana with intent to distribute, conspiracy to commit robbery, robbery, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and crime of violence.
A third defendant, Samuel Solomon, was charged by Superseding Information with conspiracy to possess marijuana with intent to distribute, conspiracy to commit robbery and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug crime. Solomon pleaded guilty to these crimes on April 27, 2026, and faces a mandatory minimum of five years in prison when sentenced.
According to records filed in the case, on November 2, 2022, Mitchell, Thompson, and Solomon, flew into Portland, Oregon, with a plan to rob the victim who had previously sold Solomon and Mitchell marijuana. The men rented cars and drove up to West Seattle where Mitchell had arranged for an Airbnb rental. At the Airbnb, all three men were armed with handguns. Thompson hid in one of the bedrooms so that the victim would not know he was there.
During the marijuana deal, Thompson came out of the bedroom with a firearm and told the victim not to move. Shots were fired and the victim was fatally injured. Solomon fled the house and caught a flight home. Mitchell and Thompson took the victim’s marijuana, fled the house, and drove home.
Seattle Police responded to 911 calls about the gunshots and found the victim lying injured and alone inside the Airbnb. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Solomon, Thompson, and Mitchell were originally indicted on March 12, 2025. Solomon and Thompson were arrested in March 2025. Mitchell made his initial appearance on the original indictment in September 2025.
Conspiracy to possess marijuana with intent to distribute and conspiracy to commit robbery are both punishable by up to five years in prison. Robbery is punishable by up to 20 years in prison. Because the firearm was discharged, possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking or a crime of violence is punishable by a mandatory minimum ten years in prison and up to life in prison.
The charges contained in the indictment are only allegations. A person is presumed innocent unless and until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
The case was investigated by the Seattle Police Department and the FBI, with valuable assistance provided by the Washington State Patrol Crime Laboratory.
We’re following up on the suspects’ status as well as any other charges pending in the case
Thanks to Howard for the tip! Seattle firefighters are back today at soon-to-be-demolished residential buildings on Fauntleroy Way SW south of The Triangle – that’s Highland Park-based Engine 11 out front as of a short time ago.
Firefighters are training – particularly in techniques such as ventilation; we heard chainsaw roaring just as we walked up for a quick pic. We’re awaiting official info from SFD but from past coverage, we’re aware of this program through which you can offer a structure for practice like this before it’s torn down.
P.S. We wrote about redevelopment plans for thi site a year and a half ago.
(Photo by Bob Burns, sunny afternoon on Alki last week)
Here’s our Wednesday list, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar – which you can preview any time – here’s what’s happening today/tonight:
REMINDER – WALKING FOR WELL-BEING: 10 am Wednesday walks start from 47th/Fontanelle (so if you didn’t see this in the calendar and missed it here’s your reminder for next week).
TODDLER READING TIME: 10:30 am at Paper Boat Booksellers (4522 California SW; WSB sponsor).
PLAY AMERICAN MAH JONGG: 2-4 pm, join players at Missing Piece (4707 California SW).
DINE OUT FOR GATEWOOD ELEMENTARY: 3-9 pm at The Neighborhood (6503 California SW), the school benefits from part of tonight’s proceeds during the restaurant’s monthly fundraiser night (rotating beneficiaries).
LOOKING FOR WORK? “Create Video Resumes that Get You Hired,” 4 pm teens/young adults event at Southwest Library (9010 California SW)
ART WITH REC’N THE STREETS: 3-4:30 pm, free art activities at Delridge Library (5423 Delridge Way SW).
HIGH-SCHOOL SPORTS: Here’s what’s on the Metro League schedule today: Two boys-soccer matches. At 4 pm – West Seattle HS senior night at Walt Hundley Playfield (34th/Myrtle) vs. Nathan Hale; at 5 pm at Nino Cantu SW Athletic Complex (2801 SW Thistle), Chief Sealth IHS vs. Roosevelt.
DROP-IN HOMEWORK HELP: 4-5:45 pm at High Point Library (3411 SW Raymond).
ROCK BAND GAMING AT MR. B’S MEAD CENTER: 5-10 pm, weekly gaming event in South Delridge! (9444 Delridge Way SW)
FIX-IT WORKSHOP: The free (donations appreciated), 5:30-7:30 pm workshop is back at West Seattle Tool Library (4408 Delridge Way SW, northeast side of Youngstown Cultural Arts Center), and the library is open for borrowing.
OPEN STUDIO AT POTTERINGS: Bring your own project or get inspiration at the studio, 6-8 pm, details in our calendar listing. (3400 Harbor SW)
PAINT & SIP AT NEPENTHE: 6 pm, themed “Crazy for Crows.” (9447 35th SW)
HOW TO GET RAINWISE: 6 pm free webinar – our calendar listing has attendance links as well as quick ways to find out if you’re eligible for the program.
WEST SEATTLE URBANISM: Discuss our city’s growth, present and future, at the weekly 6 pm meetup at Great American Diner/Bar (4752 California SW).
CRIBBAGE AT WEST SEATTLE EAGLES: 6 pm, all welcome to play, membership not required. (4426 California SW)
KUNDALINI YOGA: Do it at 6 pm at Inner Alchemy Studio/Sanctuary (3618 SW Alaska). $35.
WEDNESDAY NIGHT RUN: Midweek movement – join the weekly 6:15 pm group run with West Seattle Runner (2743 California SW; WSB sponsor) tonight – all welcome, all paces!
HUM-IN PROTEST: Protesting via sound vibration, 6:30-7 pm Wednesdays at Junction Plaza Park (42nd SW and SW Alaska).
LIVE MUSIC AT THE LOCOL: 6:30 pm. 21+. Rotating performer lineup. (7902 35th SW)
MAD CRAFTY: Bring your project to Revelry Room (4547 California SW), 7-9 pm.
MUSIC BINGO: Weekly music bingo at at The Good Society (California/Lander), 7 pm.
TRIVIA x 4: Four West Seattle trivia venues – 7 pm at Admiral Pub (2306 California SW), free to play, cash prizes … Larry’s Tavern (3405 California SW) has Wednesday trivia at 7:30 pm … Quiz Night at 8 pm at Beveridge Place Pub (6413 California SW) … And trivia starts at 8:30 pm at Talarico’s (4718 California SW).
SKYLARK OPEN MIC: It’s your stage at West Seattle’s longest-running open-mic night! 7:30 pm signups for the weekly event at The Skylark. (3803 Delridge Way SW)
SWING IT! Swing dancing and live music at 8:15 pm at South Park Hall (1253 S. Cloverdale).
KARAOKE AT ADMIRAL PUB: Sing at the pub starting at 8:45 pm, after trivia. (2306 California SW)
Planning something that’s open to community participation/observation? Please send us info so we can add it to West Seattle’s only comprehensive event calendar! westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
(Richard Reed’s winning art for this year’s WSGT)
In addition to celebrating local garden and gardeners, the West Seattle Garden Tour raises money to help local organizations grow. But to get it, you have to apply for it, and next year’s applications are being accepted right now – here’s the announcement sent to us to share with you:
Each year, the West Seattle Garden Tour, a 501(c)(3) organization, provides grants to other nonprofit organizations for projects that fit our mission — to promote horticulture, education and artistic endeavors within West Seattle and neighboring communities. The 2027 grant cycle is now open. Nonprofit organizations with eligible projects are invited to apply.
Our 2027 grant application form and guidelines are now available at https://www.westseattlegardentour.org/grants. Completed applications are due by midnight July 15, 2026. Grant requests are usually in the $2,000 to $6,000 range with some requests higher or lower.
Accepted projects would receive funds in March 2027.
ABOUT WEST SEATTLE GARDEN TOUR: Since its inception in 1995, West Seattle Garden Tour has been one of the premier garden tours in the Northwest, as well as a fundraiser for local nonprofits. The West Seattle Garden Tour donates approximately $50,000 each year to local grantees in support of their horticultural, educational and artistic missions. Over $600,000 in grants has been awarded since our inception.
The 2026 garden tour is on Sunday, June 28 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets are now available for sale online and will also be sold in select retail outlets beginning in early May. More information can be found at westseattlegardentour.org.
8:35 AM: 2-vehicle collision reported southbound at 16th/Barton.
Earlier:
6:01 AM: Good morning! Welcome to Wednesday, April 29, 2026.
WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET
Sunny, high in the mid-60s. Sunrise was at 5:55 am; sunset will be at 8:19 pm.
(Tuesday morning photo by Theresa Arbow-O’Connor)
TRANSIT TODAY
Metro buses – Regular schedules.
West Seattle Water Taxi – Now on “summer” schedule, with extra Friday/Saturday/Sunday runs including later-night schedules Fridays and Saturdays.
Washington State Ferries – Fauntleroy/Vashon/Southworth route still on a two-boat schedule with a third, unscheduled boat, but was canceling some very early-am sailings today, so check WSF’s alert page for updates. That’s also where you’ll find a summary of fare changes starting Friday (May 1). And note work at the Fauntleroy dock this week could affect ferry users.
SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS
High Bridge – Here’s the main camera, followed by the Fauntleroy-end camera:
Low Bridge – Here’s the westward view. Also note, maritime-opening info is available via X (ex-Twitter):
1st Avenue South Bridge (25 mph speed limit):
Delridge cameras: In addition to the one below (Delridge/Genesee), cameras are also at Delridge/Juneau, Delridge/Henderson, Delridge/Oregon, and video-only (so you have to go to the map), Delridge/Holden and Delridge/Thistle.
MORE TRAFFIC CAMS: All functioning traffic cams citywide are here (including links to live video for most); for a quick scan of West Seattle and vicinity-relevant cameras, see this WSB page.
See trouble on the bridges/streets/paths/water? Please text or call our hotline (when you can do it safely, and after you’ve reported to authorities if they’re not already on scene) – 206-293-6302. Thank you!
On Monday we published a reader report about a garage break-in in Fauntleroy, and the victim’s discovery of someone else’s stuff dumped nearby. It appears some of that belonged to a nearby resident. Now we have two more Fauntleroy break-in reports:
STORE BURGLARY: Al sent this photo, taken at the gas-station mini-mart near the north end of Lincoln Park this morning:
Al says the person on duty would only say it happened around 3:30 am. We checked the police log and radio archives; there was a call about a burglary alarm at 3:30 am, then a call categorized “commercial burglary” just before 5. We’ve had a request out to SPD for the narrative since this morning; they’ve told us twice that it is awaiting a supervisor’s approval. If we get the report tomorrow, we’ll add information here.
ADDED WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON: Here’s the narrative, with redactions:
On 04/28/2026 at 0325 hours I was working uniformed patrol for the Seattle Police Department as unit 3W3 with my partner XXXX. I responded to an alarm call at 74XX Fauntleroy Wy Sw, Lincoln Food Mart. The call notes read as follows:
(OWNER REPORTS) AUDIBLE COMMERCIAL BURG, TRIP/0307, COV/ZONE 1 FRONT DOOR, VER/SPOKE WITH KEYHOLDER WITH VIDEO, DID NOT MENTION WHAT HE SAW ON CAMERAS, WILL BE RESPONDING TO LOCATION ETA 5 MINS
I arrived on scene and spoke to the keyholder XXXX. The involved business XXXX Mart had extensive damage to the door frame, windows, ice box and pillars. I captured multiple photos of the damage to the business and uploaded these photos to evidence.com.
XXXX was able to provide officers with video footage of the incident from within the store. Officers watched the video footage and the footage showed the following: At approximately, 02:50; what appeared to be a U-Haul was utilized to force entry into the business. Two subjects utilized a chain that latched to the door frame and the vehicle. The subject’s were able to open the XXXX. There was an inner gate inside of the business that the subject’s were unable to open. Due to this, the subjects backed their vehicle toward the business striking pillars and shattering windows in the business. The subjects were unable to successfully gain access to the building and drove away from the scene.
The estimate of damage that XXXX provided is roughly 20,000-25,000 thousand dollars. Due to damage to the pillars, door frame, glass and merchandise.
It should be noted that it is XXXX. However, it appears that the vehicle had XXXX.
The suspects can be described as follows: 2 Males, wearing dark clothing.
GARAGE BURGLARY: The video and report were sent late last night by Natalie near 45th SW and SW Director:
Just a heads up for Wildwood/Endolyne neighbors. We had 2 guys prowling around our apartment garage at 4 am (Monday) morning. They took a knife from the 4Runner and seemed to be casing the place. … Stay vigilant everyone!
We haven’t been through The Junction in a few days so we don’t know how long this has been up, but this mural on the east side of the California/Erskine 7-Eleven caught our eye this evening, so we pulled over for a quick through-the-windshield pic. It bears both the Coca-Cola and 7-Eleven logos, so we’re pretty sure it’s official, though probably not part of the major Seattle World Cup mural project. (Seen other signs of World Cup mania-to-come in West Seattle? Let us know – thank you!)
One week from Saturday – on May 9th – it’ll be this year’s West Seattle Community Garage Sale Day, with another record number of sales registered, more than 660! WSCGSD – which we’ve coordinated since its fourth year in 2008 – is NOT one big sale, but instead, sales of all sizes, all types, all over West Seattle (and beyond, including White Center and South Park). We’re in the midst of making the map and list featuring those 660+ registered sales, as well as making notes for smaller lists that might be interest to shoppers looking for particular types of items … this info is based on the listing info that sellers included on their registration forms. Looking for baby gear? Kid stuff? Clothing? Camping gear? Fishing gear? Puzzles? Games? Plants? Cookware? Jewelry? Art? Pet stuff? Home-office stuff? Even … ephemera? (Five listings use that word!) All that and much more (also a popular listing phrase), waiting to be found, 9 am-3 pm Saturday, May 9 – if you’re interested in shopping earlier, later, or adjacent days, there’ll be listings with that info too!
Now a question: It’s also a longstanding WSCGSD tradition to donate leftover stuff to nonprofits if you can. But first, we need a list of nonprofits who welcome post-WSCGSD donations (we’ve heard from one so far), so if you’re associated with one that would be, please email us at westseattleblog@gmail.com – let us know what you’d be interested in, and where/when people could drop it off.
And a reminder – the map and list will be available here on WSB by Saturday morning (May 2) – besides a story announcing it, we’ll also add it to the menu for that day and the ensuing week, so you’ll be able to find it more easily.
(Photos courtesy Denny-Sealth Performing Arts)
Turning now to good news: The jazz program at Chief Sealth International High School is growing, and student musicians brought home proof of that from a prestigious festival in Idaho. Here’s the report from Denny-Sealth Performing Arts president Jaeney Hoene:
The Chief Sealth International High School Jazz Program brought home honors from the 59th Annual Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival this past weekend. Led by Director of Bands Joey Roberts (Jazz I and Jazz Combos) and Director Dave Niimi (Jazz II), the Chief Sealth Jazz Bands competed with high school jazz groups from the United States and Canada and earned these recognitions:
(From left: Theo McGaughey, Tito Puente, Jr., Ella Ward, Noah Kimball at the 59th Annual Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival)
Jazz Trio — Division II Winner, Senior Instrumental Combos (Theo McGaughey, Ari Peck, Ethan Faunce)
Jazz Combo I — Division II Runner Up, Senior Instrumental Combos
Jazz Band I — Division II Runner Up, Senior Instrumental Large Ensembles
Theo McGaughey — Runner Up, Avista Scholarship Solo Instrumental AwardStudents attended workshops and performances and learned from jazz greats like Warren Wolf and various college faculty members. See all student performances at the Denny Sealth Performing Arts website: dspaboosters.org/programs/jazz-band.
Chief Sealth’s jazz program has grown by leaps and bounds this year, splitting into Jazz Bands I and II at a time when funding is scarce. Dave Niimi came out of retirement and donates most of his hours leading Jazz II. In addition to the two Jazz bands, Sealth boasts four individual student jazz combos. These combos self-select their individual music, allowing them to explore their interests and education within the field of Jazz music. Congratulations again, students, it is wonderful to see hard work and dedication pay off!
Want to have fun and support the program? Come to our first annual Rent Party on May 17 at Kenyon Hall, where the jazz bands will take the stage again along with local musicians for a rousing evening of jazz. Many thanks to the growing list of sponsors: Reubens Brews, Georgetown Brewery, The Locol Kitchen and Bar, West Seattle Thriftway, and especially Kenyon Hall Management for providing us an amazing space for our jazz party!
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