Seattle police are investigating after a restaurant employee was found dead from a gunshot inside a business. No arrests have been made.
Seattle Police Chief Shon Barnes said employees arrived at the restaurant near the 8500 block of Lake City Way around 9 a.m. and discovered a male coworker in his early 20s dead at the scene.
The victim was identified as 25-year-old Quusaa Margarsa, who friends and coworkers knew as “Q.” Margarsa attended Nathan Hale High School, according to people who knew him.
Barnes said Margarsa had worked the previous night and had been trusted with closing the restaurant.
The restaurant’s owner, Kelly Dole, said employees had arrived earlier than usual Saturday for a work party when the first employee inside discovered Margarsa.
Seattle police officers and firefighters responded, and Margarsa was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators have not made any arrests, and Barnes described the case as being in its early stages. Detectives are gathering both physical and digital evidence, including surveillance video.
Police have not released details about a possible motive. Barnes declined to say whether robbery may have played a role, whether investigators believe there was one or more suspects, or whether the shooting occurred inside or outside the restaurant.
Dole said Margarsa had worked at the restaurant for about a year and was a longtime friend of his son.
“Q was the type of person, he was like the friend you wish you had,” Dole said. “He was filled with love and affection.”
Dole said Margarsa was known for giving people hugs, staying positive and working with a smile on his face, even during difficult times.
“He will just be deeply missed, and it’s a tragedy that this has happened,” Dole said. “I miss him already, and he’ll always be in our hearts.”
Neighbors described the restaurant as a popular community gathering place known for live music, family events and holiday celebrations. Susan Morris, who said she has lived nearby for 50 years, called it one of the best businesses the neighborhood has had.
Chief Barnes said the restaurant owners are cooperating with investigators and care deeply about both the victim and the surrounding neighborhood.
Barnes said officers will increase patrols in the area while detectives continue canvassing for witnesses and evidence.
Police are urging anyone with information or surveillance footage related to the homicide to contact 911 or Crime Stoppers.
This marks the 12th homicide in Seattle in 2026.
