Opening Coats and Closing Streets: How Officers Defused a Public Threat on New Year’s Eve

Under the glow of the Space Needle and the promise of fireworks lighting up the Seattle sky, thousands of revelers gathered as one year gave way to the next. Laughter, music, and the hum of anticipation filled the air — a scene that has become tradition in this city where skyline and skyline dreams meet. Yet, on this New Year’s Eve, that festive canvas was briefly punctuated by concern when a man armed with firearms appeared near the celebration, prompting a calm but urgent response from local police.

As dusk settled on Dec. 31, at around 7:20 p.m., Seattle police officers assigned to the event center responded to calls about a man sitting on a bench near the Pacific Science Center, partly concealing a shotgun. Witnesses said they saw the weapon clearly in his grip as he faced the area where crowds were gathering for the annual fireworks display — a sight that caused alarm among onlookers.

The suspect, later identified as 21‑year‑old Marcos Campos Lezama, was wearing all black clothing — including cargo pants — and a distinctive bright red hat with the word “WAR” written on it. Officers approached and arrested him without incident; he cooperated with police and was taken into custody as the weapons were safely secured.

In addition to the shotgun, officers found a handgun and multiple rounds of ammunition in Lezama’s possession. Though he had a valid concealed carry permit for the handgun, police charged him with unlawful use of weapons to intimidate, a misdemeanor offense. His bail was set at $10,000, and he was booked into the King County Correctional Facility pending further legal proceedings.

Seattle police also took the precaution of having the Arson Bomb Squad sweep his nearby vehicle for any additional threats, including explosives; none were found, and the car was deemed non‑threatening. In addition, the Seattle Center’s Emergency Services Unit issued Lezama a one‑year trespass warning from the campus grounds where the celebration took place.

The configuration of the shotgun — loaded with a combination of projectiles — and the presence of additional equipment raised concerns among investigators about potential intent to use the firearms. Police statements noted that such loadouts are “typically seen by people who are anticipating to take shots with a shotgun at varying ranges,” though the specific intent remains part of the ongoing inquiry.

Officers’ swift and controlled action ensured that the celebration continued without further disruption, providing a vivid example of law enforcement vigilance amid large public gatherings. In a year marked by heightened awareness of security at major events nationwide, this incident underscores the delicate balance between preparedness and public calm.

As the night’s fireworks finally lit up the city’s skyline and crowds cheered their hopes for the year ahead, the arrest served as a reminder that public safety requires both community awareness and professional readiness. With charges now filed and legal proceedings in motion, officials continue to review the case — and Seattle residents will step into the new year with memories of both celebration and a reminder of the responsibilities that come with ensuring community gatherings remain joyous and safe.

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Sources: ABC News; KOMO News; Seattle Police Department SPD Blotter; KIRO 7 News; King5.