Seattle taproom employee killed; police searching for shooter

Police were searching for a shooter who killed a taproom worker Saturday in North Seattle.

An employee of The Growler Guys came to work just before 9 a.m. Saturday and found a co-worker on the ground with apparent injuries, Seattle police spokesperson Detective Eric Muñoz said.

The wounded man, in his early 20s, had suffered gunshot wounds, Muñoz said in an interview at the scene, in the 8500 block of Lake City Way Northeast. The Seattle Fire Department declared the man dead at the scene. Police cordoned the area until homicide detectives arrived. Seattle police were processing evidence.

Police posted on X around 11:10 a.m. that they were investigating a homicide.

Seattle police had not released a description of any suspects and had not arrested anyone as of Saturday afternoon.

Authorities had not publicly identified the employee by name Saturday.

Kelly Dole, an owner of The Growler Guys, said the young man went to Nathan Hale High School with his son. He was the type of friend everybody wanted.

"He was so buoyant and cheerful to be around, Kelly Dole said.

The young man was warm, intelligent and artistic, said Carol Dole, an owner of the taproom, adding that he was a hugger and a dancer with a "bright future."

He had a friend group that was a "band of brothers," Kelly Dole said, some of whom arrived at the taproom Saturday with tears in their eyes.

"He was a valued part of this local community and of this business," Kelly Dole said. "We're really going to miss him.

The King County medical examiner's office will take custody of the body to confirm the identity of the deceased, as well as the cause and manner of death.

The Growler Guys is a popular hangout for craft beer and cider, on the edge of four Seattle neighborhoods: Wedgwood, Ravenna, Maple Leaf and Roosevelt. The small chain's Lake City Way location closes at 11 p.m. Fridays.

Investigators had not released details about the exact timing of the gunfire.

Tips can be directed to Seattle police at 206-233-5000. Police will accept anonymous tips.

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This story was originally published May 9, 2026 at 4:48 PM.