Multiple Seattle City Councilmembers told KOMO News that Mayor Katie Wilson asked Seattle Police Chief Shon Barnes to resign on Wednesday night. The mayor has confirmed to the council that there will be a "transition" in the Chief's office, according to the councilmembers.
The request comes amid ongoing discussions about public safety and police reform in Seattle. Chief Barnes, who was appointed in 2022, has led the department through several high-profile incidents and policy changes.
Neither the mayor's office nor Chief Barnes has issued a public statement as of Thursday morning. The councilmembers spoke on condition of anonymity because the discussions were private.
This is a developing story. KOMO News has reached out to the mayor's office and the Seattle Police Department for comment.
