Madison Police Chief Shon Barnes has been selected to lead the Seattle Police Department, Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell announced Wednesday, according to a Wisconsin State Journal report.
The announcement comes as Barnes is in the national spotlight, heading the investigation into Monday’s tragic shooting at Madison’s Abundant Life Christian School.
Speculation about Barnes’ candidacy for the Seattle role began earlier this month, when local outlet KCPQ Fox 13 reported he was a finalist. While Mayor Harrell initially planned to announce the decision on Tuesday, the timeline shifted due to the ongoing investigation into one of Madison’s most shocking crimes.
Barnes has led the Madison Police Department since 2021, after serving as director of training and professional development for Chicago’s police oversight group and as a deputy chief in North Carolina. During his tenure in Madison, Barnes faced recurring questions about his long-term commitment to the city, as this marked his third bid for an out-of-state chief role.
In 2023, Barnes was a finalist for Chicago’s police chief position, and earlier this year, he was one of two finalists for the top role in San Jose, California.
