A Seattle man accused of shooting a passenger on a King County Metro bus could face a life sentence if convicted under Washington’s three-strike law, prosecutors said.
Rashad Mackey, 36, is facing charges related to a July 5 shooting that happened on a Metro bus near Fifth Avenue South and South Lander Street. Prosecutors allege that Mackey fired multiple shots toward the bus after accusing passengers of taking his cellphone.
The victim was shot in the chest and was reported to be in critical condition following the incident. Authorities later arrested Mackey, who has previous felony convictions involving assault and illegal firearm possession.
Shooting
According to charging documents, the incident happened while the bus was traveling through the area near Fifth Avenue South and South Lander Street. Prosecutors said Mackey confronted people on the bus, claiming they had taken his phone.
A witness told investigators that Mackey threatened passengers before leaving the bus. The documents state that he later opened fire as the bus was moving away.
Surveillance footage from inside the bus captured the aftermath of the shooting. According to court documents, the injured passenger said, “I have been shot,” while holding his chest and checking the wound.
Another passenger used the victim’s phone to contact emergency services and report the shooting.
Charges
Mackey has been charged with first-degree assault and unlawful possession of a firearm. Prosecutors are seeking serious penalties due to his criminal history.
Under Washington’s three-strike law, certain repeat offenders convicted of serious violent crimes may face life in prison without the possibility of parole.
Mackey’s previous felony convictions include assault and illegal firearm possession. Prosecutors said those convictions could affect the potential sentence if he is found guilty in the current case.
| Case Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Suspect | Rashad Mackey, 36 |
| Location | Near Fifth Avenue South and South Lander Street |
| Charges | First-degree assault and unlawful firearm possession |
| Potential Sentence | Life in prison under three-strike law |
| Bail | $5 million |
Investigation
Prosecutors described the shooting as a serious act of violence, noting that multiple shots were fired into an occupied public bus.
Senior Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Brynn N. H. Jacobson wrote in court documents that the shooting showed a disregard for the safety of passengers. The filing also stated that the victim suffered a severe chest injury and required emergency medical treatment.
According to prosecutors, the victim’s condition was extremely serious at the scene but later improved with medical care.
Investigators continue reviewing evidence, including surveillance footage and witness statements, as the case moves through the court system.
History
Court documents indicate that Mackey was released from prison in November before the Metro bus shooting case.
Prosecutors said Mackey reported to the Department of Corrections office in Des Moines last Friday for a scheduled meeting with his DOC officer. He was then arrested and booked into the King County Jail.
Authorities are also investigating Mackey in connection with a separate bus-related knife assault reported in February 2026, according to court documents.
That separate case remains under review as officials continue gathering information.
Court
Mackey is scheduled to appear for arraignment Thursday morning on the first-degree assault charge. His bail has been set at $5 million.
The arraignment will determine the next steps in the legal process, including future hearings and possible case developments.
A conviction in the current case could lead to significant penalties because of Mackey’s previous felony record. However, the charges remain allegations, and the case will proceed through the court system before any final determination is made.
The Seattle Metro bus shooting case has raised concerns about public safety and the challenges of preventing repeat violent offenses. Prosecutors will continue presenting evidence as the case moves forward, while the court will determine the outcome based on the facts presented during legal proceedings.
FAQs
Who is the Metro bus shooting suspect?
Rashad Mackey, 36, is accused in the shooting case.
Where did the shooting happen?
The shooting happened on a King County Metro bus.
What charges does Mackey face?
He faces first-degree assault and firearm charges.
What is the three-strike law?
It can lead repeat offenders to life sentences.
What is Mackey’s bail amount?
His bail is set at $5 million.
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