Dispute At Party Led To Bellevue Shooting, Stabbing, Police Say

BELLEVUE, WA — Police on Sunday released more information about the shooting and stabbing inside a high-rise apartment tower in downtown Bellevue Saturday night that left two people dead, including the alleged perpetrator.

In a news conference Sunday morning, Police Chief Steve Mylett said the incident occurred at a housewarming party hosted by a 22-year-old Bellevue woman at the Elements Apartments, a luxury complex.

Guests at the party included a 41-year-old male relative from Burien, a 21-year-old male friend from Renton and a 24-year-old male friend from Bend, Oregon.

A disturbance began at some point between 7-7:30 p.m. Saturday, Mylett said, during which the Burien man stabbed three people in the third-floor apartment including his relative, the host. On Saturday, Mylett said officers responded to "frantic" 911 calls in which "a lot of chaos could be heard in the background."

The suspect and victims are all accounted for and there is no danger to the public. 112th btwn NE 8th & 12th is closed for the investigation. Please avoid the area. pic.twitter.com/Nko0xfYuRU
— Bellevue, WA Police (@BvuePD) July 12, 2020

The Renton man died at the scene from stab wounds, while the 24-year-old from Bend, who was armed with a firearm, drew his gun and fired at the Burien man, killing him, Mylett said.

The Bend man also suffered multiple stab wounds in the neck and was taken to Harborview Medical Center, where he underwent surgery and was in good condition Sunday morning, Mylett said.

The Bellevue woman was treated for her injuries at Overlake Medical Center and released Saturday night, Mylett said.

Detectives are interviewing witnesses and video evidence as they work to answer a number of questions that remain about what led to the deadly conflict — namely, Mylett said, "What is the motive for all of this?"

Responding to a reporter’s question, Mylett said the department would look into whether the gathering was a violation of the state’s stay-home order, which prohibits gatherings of more than five people outside the household in King County.