Lulu Couch

Lou Ellen "Lulu" Couch, born in 1963, emerged from the challenging environment of South Seattle’s housing projects, where she lived with her siblings, including her youngest biracial brother, Frankie. Known for her tough demeanor and caring heart, Lulu was a vibrant and protective figure for many teenage runaways navigating the harsh realities of street life in Seattle. Her life and influence were poignantly captured in the celebrated documentary *Streetwise* and in Justin Reed Early's memoir, *Street Child*, which chronicles his experiences as a homeless youth and his time with Couch. Additionally, her life inspired the character Bullet in the acclaimed TV series *The Killing*, further cementing her legacy in popular culture.

Tragically, Lulu's life was cut short when she was fatally stabbed during a confrontation with a homeless man in an arcade in downtown Seattle on December 12, 1985, at the tender age of twenty-two. Despite her brief time on earth, Couch left an indelible mark on those she mentored and served, embodying resilience and compassion in the face of adversity. Her story continues to resonate today, highlighting the struggles and triumphs of marginalized communities.