Happening Now Possible Protest At University Village

The Laurelhurst Blog has received many reports of a possible protest which started at 3pm today at the University Village and also at the University of Washington.

It is reported that the University Village is closed.

These comments were posted on Twitter just now:

At University Village in Seattle entrances are blocked to cars and shops are boarded up amidst reports of 3pm demonstration.

Over 50 cops in full riot gear are at University Village. Every store is shut down and being boarded up, including QFC. Cops claim body cameras are on.

SPD are swarming University Village, boarding up businesses and shutting everything down

For anyone in #Seattle thinking there is a protest in #UniversityVillage: There is not. This was a probably an attempt at organized crime, which the police have been alerted of and have now blocked off. University Village is private property and cannot be used for a protest.

Please avoid roadways around UW campus, to the extent possible, to allow emergency vehicles to access the area if needed.

A neighbor told the Laurelhurst Blog:

I saw what appeared to be national guard troops -- in full military gear, not Seattle  Police. I also saw cars with people (with masks and backpacks) driving to the U Village and trying to get in but could not; same with people on the Burke Gilman.  There were several individuals banded together with masks -- not the type of protective wear to address COVID -- with backpacks. Also saw some business on 55th near the Duchess boarding stores up.