Seattle to Close 4 Aurora Streets as 23 Shooting Probes Spur Summer Barriers
Updated
Updated · MyNorthwest · Jun 12
Seattle to Close 4 Aurora Streets as 23 Shooting Probes Spur Summer Barriers
3 articles · Updated · MyNorthwest · Jun 12
Summary
Four east-west streets—North 102nd, 100th, 98th and 96th—will be barricaded within two weeks near Aurora Avenue North and stay closed at least through the summer.
Seattle officials said the move targets looping traffic used for sex trafficking, solicitation and quick getaways after shootings, after residents reported bullets hitting homes and built makeshift barriers themselves.
Police Chief Shon Barnes said the corridor has 23 active shooting investigations, while city leaders described Aurora as a major hub for juvenile sexual exploitation, with entry into commercial sex often beginning at ages 12 to 15.
The closures are part of a broader response that includes focused enforcement, undercover operations, a prosecutor dedicated to removing guns from dangerous people, trafficking prosecutions and survivor outreach services.
Seattle will monitor safety, traffic and neighborhood access during the closures, while utilities and emergency services maintain access and officials weigh additional traffic-calming measures nearby.