SPD finds men accused of drive-by on LGBTQ+ bar patrons
Apr 10, 2025, 10:30 AM
A Seattle Police Department vehicle. (Photo courtesy of SPD)
(Photo courtesy of SPD)
The Seattle Police Department (SPD) said it made a breakthrough in its investigation of a hate crime that happened at an LGBTQ+ bar in Capitol Hill in February.
The Bias Crimes Unit has identified three suspects, aged 17, 19, and 24, who are all accused of assaulting bar patrons with anti-gay slurs and pellets. The incident began on Feb. 19 when a dark blue Lexus circled the 1200 block of East Madison Street, where people were standing outside the bar.
Witnesses reported that the passengers in the car shouted anti-gay slurs and made several passes over an hour. Eventually, the suspects got out of the vehicle, approached the bar on foot, and then returned to the car, continuing to harass people. At least a dozen people were outside during the crime.
Men allegedly terrorize LGBTQ+ bar patrons
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During one of these passes, one suspect allegedly hung out of the car’s window and fired pellets or water beads at the people outside. Law enforcement believes the attack was meant to intimidate and harm the victims.
Law enforcement has since identified all three suspects involved. They face hate crime charges, which have been referred to the King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office.
Police are asking anyone with additional information or who may have witnessed the attack to contact the SPD Tip Line at (206) 233-5000.
