A Thurston County man has been identified as one of three victims killed during a shootout at the Seattle Center on Sunday during the Bite of Seattle food festival.
Carlos Israel Sanchez Villalba, 44, of Yelm, was enjoying the festival with his family when the gunfire broke out.
His wife of 18 years, Sandra Frausto, has publicly stated that Carlos protected his family in his final moments.
Carlos died at the scene, along with Junior Cee Niko Semo, 19. Another festival attendee, 56-year-old Ashley Whitehead, died at the hospital. Four others were injured, including a 2-year-old boy. All four had been discharged from the hospital as of Monday night, according to reporting by various news outlets.
The King County Medical Examiner’s Office identified the deceased victims on Monday, July 27.
A memorial honoring the victims has been set up at the Seattle Center.
Carlos died from a gunshot wound to his torso, according to the King County Medical Examiner’s Office.
Carlos is remembered as “a devoted husband, loving father of three, and a loyal friend who would do anything for anyone,” his loved ones state on a crowdfunding campaign page. “His kindness and generosity touched countless lives, and everyone who knew him remembers his gentle spirit and willingness to help others.”
Carlos was working as a framer with McIntyre Homes at the time of his death.
“Carlos was a framer who you could call and he would answer on the weekends. Whenever you needed something he went above and beyond. He will be greatly missed in life and business,” his employer, Shannon McIntyre, said in a social media post on Monday.
The crowdfunding campaign, started by Tommy Evans, had raised $74,315 as of Wednesday morning.
The funds will be used to cover Carlos’ funeral costs and financially support his family as they learn to navigate life without him.
“Your kindness, prayers, and support will help Carlos’s family find strength and hope as they honor his memory and begin to heal. Thank you for standing with them during this heartbreaking moment,” the fundraiser description reads.
For more information about the fundraiser or to donate, visit https://gofund.me/edf5a8c29
Investigators have determined that the shooting was “targeted, gang-related violence,” according to information released by Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson that was reported by The Seattle Times.
One of the suspects in the shooting, a 15-year-old boy, was chased down and arrested on Sunday. Semo, the 19-year-old who died at the scene, has also been identified as a suspect. At least one additional suspect remains at large, but police do not believe there is ongoing immediate danger to the public.
The shooting is still under investigation.
Anyone with information about the shooting is asked to call the Seattle Police Department at 206-233-5000. Tipsters can remain anonymous.
