Seattle Police Face Off against a Subject with a Knife in their Parking Lot

The Seattle Police Department (SPD) has released additional information about the March 19 officer-involved shooting in Southwest Seattle, providing clarity on the events that unfolded in the precinct parking lot leading to the fatal incident. The department emphasizes its commitment to transparency as investigative work progresses.

Timeline of Events

• 12:16 p.m. – 911 call reporting a man in distress in the parking lot at the 2300 block of Southwest Webster Street.
• 12:18 p.m. – Officers observed the man with a knife inside the secured precinct parking area.
• Officers attempted to de-escalate the situation and requested a 40 mm launcher device for less-lethal measures.
• The man began advancing while armed, prompting an officer to fire a less-lethal round. The individual ran toward another officer, who discharged their service weapon.
• Emergency medical aid was administered, but the individual was pronounced deceased on the scene by Seattle Fire Department medics.

Investigation Underway

As is standard practice, the Seattle Police Department’s Force Investigation Team is reviewing the incident to determine the justification for the use of force. Representatives from the Office of Police Accountability and the Office of Inspector General have also joined the investigation to ensure transparency and objectivity.

The officer involved, identified as Kyle Hay, a veteran with 11 years of service, has been placed on paid administrative leave, which follows SPD’s protocol after such incidents.

Community and Transparency

The SPD has reaffirmed its commitment to providing detailed updates and ensuring full public accountability. Resources such as body camera footage or findings from the investigation will be made available to the public as the investigation progresses.