The Spin: Former SPD chief’s Bite of Seattle news conference was a crisis communications masterclass

Former Seattle Police Chief Shon Barnes used a textbook crisis communications strategy during a news conference following the deadly Bite of Seattle mass shooting, according to a new analysis by KIRO Newsradio reporter Luke Duecy.

In the latest edition of “The Spin,” Duecy examined Barnes’ responses to tough questions from reporters after the gang-related shooting, arguing the chief acknowledged criticism over delays in releasing information before pivoting to broader public safety messaging.

Reporters pressed Barnes on why it took roughly 17 hours for police to tell the public that investigators believed a second shooter remained at large.

Barnes agreed with criticism over handling of Bite of Seattle shooting

Rather than challenge the premise of the question, Barnes agreed with the criticism, saying police wanted to ensure the information they released was accurate. Duecy said that response effectively defused the criticism before Barnes shifted the conversation toward a broader message about preventing gun violence, emphasizing shared community outrage and urging the public to help address the problem.

The analysis describes the exchange as a classic public relations technique in which a spokesperson acknowledges criticism, establishes common ground and redirects attention to core organizational values and priorities.

Duecy also noted Barnes used a similar approach when questioned about reports that he had traveled frequently while serving as Seattle police chief, responding by emphasizing his commitment to Seattle and describing the city as his home.

The analysis comes days after reports that Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson asked Barnes to resign as police chief following the city’s response to the Bite of Seattle shooting.

“The Spin” is a recurring KIRO Newsradio segment examining how public officials and organizations communicate during high-profile events and how reporters evaluate those messages.