Bellevue Declares State Of Emergency, Curfew Sunday Amid Protests

BELLEVUE, WA — Bellevue city officials declared a civil emergency Sunday afternoon, citing looting and property damage during protests in the downtown area. According to Mayor Lynne Robinson's order, the curfew will remain in place until 5:30 a.m. Monday, affecting downtown and areas east of Interstate I-405.

Earlier in the afternoon, the Bellevue Police Department said some protesters moving through the city broke windows and destroyed property. Shortly after 5:30 p.m., police said dozens of people broke into Bellevue Square and looted items from several stores. Police described the situation as active and urged residents to avoid downtown.

Under Mayor Robinson's curfew, only first responders, government officials and authorized media are permitted to travel in public places within the following boundaries:

East: 120th Avenue Northeast & Northeast 1st Street
West: 100th Avenue Northeast
North: Northeast 12th Street
South: Main Street and Southeast 1st Street

Washington State Patrol closed all ramps to downtown Bellevue on Interstate 405 shortly before 6 p.m. Sound Transit shuttered the Bellevue Transit Center a few minutes later. Police asked that residents avoid calling 911 to report looting to leave lines open for other emergencies.

Bellevue Chief Steve Mylett said mutual aid was requested from the Washington National Guard and neighboring police departments, including in Kirkland and Redmond.

Watch the city's Sunday evening press conference:

Read the mayor's full emergency declaration here.