Seattle Local — 2026-07-11#

Top Story#

According to newly released Seattle Police Department data, overall crime in the city has decreased by nearly 2% during the first half of 2026, driven by a sharp 20% decline in shootings. This marks a notable improvement in public safety compared to the same period in 2025.

Local News#

Boeing Opens New 737 MAX Production Line · KOMO News Boeing has officially opened a new 737 MAX production line at its Everett factory, utilizing facilities previously dedicated to widebody jets. This expansion aims to help the company work through a 4,300-airplane backlog by boosting production to 52 planes per month, with the first Everett-built 737 expected by year’s end.

Leaders Push to Keep Stadium District CCTV Active · KOMO News Some Seattle city leaders are urging the mayor to restore surveillance cameras around the Stadium District that were deactivated after the World Cup concluded. While cameras in downtown, the Chinatown-International District, and along Aurora Avenue remain active, the debate continues over balancing public safety with privacy concerns.

Family Thwarts Attempted Kidnapping at Pike Place · KIRO 7 A 36-year-old man was arrested after attempting to snatch a baby from a stroller at Pike Place Market on Thursday morning. The child’s grandmother kicked the suspect to create space, and the father prevented him from following the women into a nearby store, holding him until police arrived.

Prosecutors Target Aurora Avenue Traffickers · KOMO News Federal and county prosecutors are actively pursuing cases against sex buyers and traffickers operating along North Aurora Avenue. However, nearby residents are calling for increased police enforcement, stating they have seen little on-the-ground impact in their neighborhoods.

Wildfires Scorch Eastern Washington · KIRO 7 Three major wildfires are burning across the state, prompting a Red Flag Warning for parts of Eastern Washington. While the 9,700-acre Chelan Hills Fire is now 100% contained, the B&O Fire remains 0% contained, and a volunteer firefighter tragically lost his home while battling the Ryegrass Coulee blaze in Vantage.

Community & Lifestyle#

Over 6,000 cyclists have taken to the backroads this weekend for the 207-mile Seattle to Portland (STP) Bicycle Classic, which is expected to cause localized traffic delays. Attendees at this weekend’s West Seattle Summerfest will notice a historic shift, as the event becomes the city’s first major festival to operate completely single-use and waste-free. Additionally, weekend drivers should plan for significant northbound I-5 gridlock due to Revive I-5 construction projects.