Salt Lake City "No Kings" Protest Shooting Leaves One Dead, Suspect Arrested

Salt Lake City was rocked by violence on June 14th when a peaceful "No Kings" demonstration turned deadly. An innocent bystander lost his life after being caught in a crossfire, sending shockwaves through the community and raising serious questions about safety at public gatherings.

1. Arthur Folasa Ah Loo, 39, a Utah resident participating in the protest, was fatally struck by gunfire around 7:56 p.m. local time. The Salt Lake City Police Department (SLCPD) reports that the shooting occurred amidst a large crowd of demonstrators, estimated at around 10,000 people, who were marching through downtown.

According to police, the chaos erupted when Arturo Gamboa, 24, allegedly brandished a rifle at the demonstrators. Peacekeepers, tasked with maintaining order at the event, confronted Gamboa, ordering him to drop his weapon. In the ensuing confrontation, one of the peacekeepers fired three shots, striking both Gamboa and Ah Loo.

The SLCPD is currently investigating the incident, including the actions of the peacekeepers. Gamboa has been taken into custody and faces a murder charge.

Witnesses reported scenes of panic as the gunshots rang out, with hundreds fleeing for safety, seeking refuge behind barriers, and running into nearby parking garages and businesses.

"Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the 39-year-old man who was killed, and with the many community members who were impacted by this traumatic incident," stated Salt Lake City Police Chief Brian Redd. He praised the swift and coordinated response of his officers and law enforcement partners.

The "No Kings" protest, which took place across the United States on June 14th, was organized in opposition to certain policies and coincided with events in Washington, D.C. While many of these demonstrations were peaceful, some locations experienced violence.

In Northern Virginia, a driver intentionally drove an SUV through a crowd of departing protesters, injuring at least one person. In Los Angeles, police used batons and tear gas to disperse protesters after authorities reported that officers were being targeted with projectiles.

The incident in Salt Lake City raises serious questions about security at public protests and the role of armed individuals at these events. The SLCPD is urging anyone with information about the shooting to come forward as they continue their investigation. The death of Arthur Folasa Ah Loo serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers present at even seemingly peaceful gatherings.

The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are working to determine the full sequence of events and the motives behind Gamboa's actions. The Utah Office of the Medical Examiner will determine the official cause and manner of Ah Loo's death.

The "No Kings" group issued a statement indicating they were following guidance to avoid rallies on June 14th.