Seattle Residents Show Support for Minnesota Community After Shootings

VA vigil held tonight, pastor's presentation on Minnesota trip scheduled for tomorrow

Jan. 27, 2026 at 10:31pm

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In the wake of two recent shooting deaths at the hands of federal agents in Minnesota, Seattle residents have organized a vigil at the local VA medical center and a pastor is set to share her experiences from a recent trip to the affected community.

Why it matters

The shootings in Minnesota have sparked outrage and grief nationwide, with communities across the country showing solidarity. Seattle's vigil and pastor's presentation demonstrate the city's commitment to supporting the affected Minnesota community during this difficult time.

The details

Tonight, a group of West Seattle residents gathered at the Seattle VA medical center on Beacon Hill for a vigil honoring Alex Pretti, a Minnesota VA nurse who was killed in one of the recent shootings. Tomorrow evening, Fauntleroy Church pastor Rev. Leah Atkinson Bilinski will speak to her congregation about her recent trip to Minneapolis, where she joined a delegation of clergy providing community support and patrols.

  • The vigil at the Seattle VA medical center took place tonight, January 28, 2026.
  • Rev. Bilinski's presentation at Fauntleroy Church is scheduled for Wednesday, January 29, 2026 at 7 pm.

The players

Don Brubeck

A West Seattle resident who attended the vigil at the Seattle VA medical center.

Rev. Leah Atkinson Bilinski

The pastor of Fauntleroy Church who recently traveled to Minneapolis to join a delegation of clergy providing community support.

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The takeaway

Seattle's response to the tragic events in Minnesota, through the vigil and pastor's presentation, demonstrates the city's commitment to supporting affected communities and standing in solidarity during difficult times.