SEATTLE — A business in Seattle’s Central District closed its doors following a shooting that happened hours after a vigil marking one year since The Postman’s co-founder was shot and killed.
The Postman, a shipping and mail operation, said Sunday that the business does not know the extent of the violence or its direct targets and does not want to put anyone in harm’s way.
“We cannot allow hate to prevail, but we also cannot overlook the safety of those who make our community thrive,” The Postman CEO KeAnna Rose wrote in a letter to community members.
Seattle police officers responded to a shooting at East Union Street and Martin Luther King Jr. Way on Oct. 20 at 5:25 a.m., according to the department. A business window was shot out, and casings were found. No arrests have been made.
The night before, The Postman said mourners had gathered outside to mark one year since the death of D’Vonne Pickett Jr.
Pickett Jr. was shot and killed Oct. 19, 2022, while he was walking toward the front door of The Postman.
Ashton Christopher Leffall, who family claimed was harassing Pickett Jr., was charged in Pickett Jr.’s death.
In addition to his business, Pickett Jr. worked as a mentor and coach for young people. Friends and family referred to Pickett Jr. as a pillar of the community.
In a letter to the community, Rose wrote that Thursday’s shooting left the business “feeling unwelcome” and that there needs to be accountability and unity in their neighborhood.
By closing its doors, Rose wrote that they hoped they were sending the message that hate will not win. Rose also wrote that she hoped the community would work together to address the root cause of gun violence.
The Postman said it would offer mailbox holders the opportunity to pick up their mail during designated time windows. Mail is expected to be held at the U.S. Postal Service Facility on South Lander by the end of the week. The Postman urged customers to initiate a change of address to ensure uninterrupted mail delivery.