Request for information in shooting deaths of other Seattle youth
City Councilmember Eddie Lin (District 2) released this statement following the arrest of a suspect in the Jan. 30 murder of Tyjon Stewart and Tra’veiah Houfmuse outside Rainier Beach High School in South Seattle.
“I’m incredibly thankful for the hard work of the Seattle Police Department and the community contributions that led to the arrest of a suspect in the January 30th murder of Rainier Beach students. Tra’veiah and Tyjon’s deaths were an unfathomable tragedy for their families and devastated the entire Rainier Beach community. I hope this arrest provides some small bit of relief to the grieving families. I have heard from friends and family members and remain committed to supporting them and other impacted families in South Seattle through this impossible time.
“This arrest sends a clear and strong message that we will be relentless in our pursuit of justice, and that we will not forget those who we have lost to gun violence, especially our kids. We must also do everything we can to prevent youth gun violence by investing in our youth, working with our schools and community partners, and fostering better relationships and collaboration between everyone who works with our youth. I am committed to this work.
“The Seattle Police Department highlighted how critical input from community members was in making today’s arrest. We have lost too many youth, and each of their families deserves justice. I’d also like to use this as an opportunity to call for witnesses to come forward in other cases, including those of other young people who fell victim to gun violence such as Xavier Landry, Conner Dassa-Holland, Amarr Murphy-Paine, Adriel Webb, Soloman Taylor, Mobarak Adam, Ayub Asad Hashi, Jahaz S. Phillips, Myion Coleman, and Kahlani Shabazz. It is never too late to share information that could lead to justice – please reach out to the police tipline at 206-233-5000.”
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