Police officers arrested an armed man near the Space Needle during Seattle's New Year's Eve celebration, the Seattle Police Department said Thursday.
At about 7:20 p.m., officers responded to reports of a man holding a shotgun while sitting on a bench near the Pacific Science Center. He was facing the area where spectators were gathering for the fireworks display and holding the gun by the grip, causing alarm" to witnesses, according to a news release.
The 21-year-old man was carrying a shotgun, a pistol and multiple rounds of ammunition, according to the news release. He was wearing all black clothing and a red hat with "WAR written on it.
Officers recovered the shotgun and arrested the man, who cooperated with police. He had a valid concealed carry permit, according to the news release.
Officers also found the suspect's car nearby. Seattle Police Department's Arson Bomb Squad swept the car but did not find any potential weapons or explosives.
The man was booked into the King County Jail for alleged unlawful use of weapons, and criminal charges have been referred to the city attorney's office. He was also issued a one-year trespass warning for the Seattle Center.
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