Seattle Police declare riot in SODO Sunday night, arrest 18

Seattle Police declared a riot in SODO late Sunday night after officers were struck by explosives and injured during an anti-police union demonstration.

The incident began as an anti-police union march in the International District, starting Sunday at 7 p.m. The Seattle Police Department reports that there were approximately 100 individuals present, accompanied by vehicles following behind them.

UPDATE: Demonstration located at 4th Ave S and S Holgate St. The SB lanes are blocked. Use alt routes. pic.twitter.com/TVtIk4wVri

— SDOT Traffic (@SDOTtraffic) August 17, 2020

The group moved toward the Seattle Police Officer Guild building in the 2900 block of 4th Avenue South. Just after 10 p.m., SPD reports, someone in the crowd set off a large explosive and tried to break a window in a police vehicle. The incident commander issued an order to disperse.

Individuals from the crowd threw rocks and bottles at police officers, SPD reports, and multiple explosives were thrown as well. Police moved the crowd northbound on 4th Avenue.

Additional police resources were called in, and the Seattle Fire Department responded to treat the injured officers.

The incident was declared a riot. Officers used OC spray and blast balls. The crowd kept moving northbound before eventually dipersing.

Several officers have been injured, and arrests made on 4th Avenue. This has been declared a riot. Officers taking projectiles and fireworks. Please stay out of the area. We will update with additional information when available.

— Seattle Police Dept. (@SeattlePD) August 17, 2020

Early Monday, SPD said a total of 18 individuals were arrested and booked into the King County Jail. At least three officers were injured, one of whom was hospitalized.

This is a developing story.

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