Texts reveal governor had no hand in Seattle police info blackout after mass shooting
Released text messages indicate that Washington Governor Bob Ferguson had no involvement in the Seattle Police Department's decision to delay a press conference following a mass shooting. The delay was reportedly due to the active nature of the crime scene and the arrival of dignitaries.
Why it matters
Transparency in police communication and the accountability of public officials during mass casualty events are essential for maintaining public trust.
Seattle police waited nearly five hours after a mass shooting at Seattle Center before holding their first news conference, with a police officer telling reporters the briefing was delayed so "dignitaries" could arrive. Text messages released by Gov. Bob Ferguson's office Wednesday show communication between the governor's chief of staff and Seattle's deputy mayor stating the governor's office had no role in determining what Seattle police communicated to the public during the investigation. Reporters at the scene were initially told Seattle police would hold a news conference at 9:45 p.m.; KOMO News reported the briefing was delayed about an hour after a police officer told reporters they were "holding for dignitaries." RAW: 'We're holding for dignitaries': Police say to reporters nearly 5 hours after mass shooting Police held their first news conference at about 10:50 p.m.
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