Let’s talk about the unthinkable. A man dancing in Lake City Park—doing nothing but enjoying music and movement—was brutally attacked with a *machete* this week. Yes, you read that right. A *machete*.
This isn’t just another crime headline. It’s a wake-up call. Parks are supposed to be safe havens, places where people gather to unwind, exercise, or—in this case—dance. But when violence like this spills into public spaces, it shakes our sense of security to the core.
### **Why This Hits Different**
Dance is expression. It’s freedom. For the victim, this moment of joy turned into a nightmare. The suspect is still out there, and that’s terrifying. SPD’s blotter confirms the attack was unprovoked, which makes it even more chilling. Was this random? Targeted? We don’t know yet, but the fact that someone could swing a blade at a stranger in broad daylight is horrifying.
### **The Bigger Picture**
Seattle’s had its share of crime spikes, but machete attacks? That’s next-level alarming. FOX 13 and KING 5 report the victim survived, thankfully, but the trauma lingers. If parks aren’t safe, where *is*?
This also raises questions about mental health, weapon accessibility, and policing. MyNorthwest notes the suspect fled—how does someone with a machete just disappear? Are there enough patrols in these green spaces?
### **What Now?**
1. **Stay aware.** If you’re out dancing or jogging, scan your surroundings.
2. **Demand action.** Local leaders need to address park safety—more lighting, cameras, patrols.
3. **Support the victim.** Violence like this leaves scars, physical and mental. Community matters.
Dance should never be dangerous. Let’s not normalize this. Stay safe, stay loud, and keep dancing—just maybe with a buddy for now.
*—DanceWAMI Team*
