On June 15, 2025, a shooting at the “No Kings” protest in downtown Salt Lake City, Utah, resulted in the death of bystander Arthur Folasa Ah Loo, 39. The incident occurred amid a crowd of approximately 10,000 demonstrators marching from Pioneer Park to the Wallace F. Bennett Federal Building. Authorities swiftly arrested three suspects, with Arturo Gamboa identified as the primary individual involved. The event has intensified concerns regarding safety at public protests and gun violence. Investigations are ongoing as city and state leaders call for calm and condemn the violence.
Details of the Incident
The shooting took place around 3:45 p.m. local time during the “No Kings” protest, which attracted an estimated 10,000 participants. The march progressed peacefully from Pioneer Park toward the Wallace F. Bennett Federal Building until the shooting abruptly halted the demonstration. Arthur Folasa Ah Loo, a 39-year-old bystander uninvolved with the protest, was fatally wounded. Emergency medical responders arrived promptly, but Mr. Ah Loo was pronounced dead at the scene.
Arrests and Suspect Information
Law enforcement officials acting swiftly apprehended three individuals in connection with the shooting. Arturo Gamboa has been identified as the primary suspect. The other two arrests were made based on evidence gathered during the immediate investigation. Authorities have not yet specified the exact charges pending against all three suspects but have indicated that they will face serious criminal proceedings.
Public Safety and Community Response
The shooting has heightened concerns about security at large public gatherings, particularly protests advocating political or social change. Salt Lake City police and local government officials have emphasized efforts to ensure the safety of demonstrators and bystanders in future events. Community leaders and protest organizers have condemned the violence, calling for peaceful demonstrations and enhanced preventive measures against gun-related incidents.
Ongoing Investigation
Investigations are continuing as police gather witness statements, review surveillance footage, and analyze forensic evidence. City and state officials have pledged full cooperation with law enforcement to expedite the inquiry. Authorities have urged anyone with additional information regarding the shooting to come forward to assist in the investigation.
Official Statements and Calls for Calm
Following the incident, Salt Lake City Mayor and Utah Governor released public statements expressing condolences to the family of Arthur Folasa Ah Loo and reaffirming their commitment to maintaining public safety. Both leaders discouraged retaliatory acts or escalation, urging community members to remain calm and focus on constructive dialogue. They also highlighted the importance of addressing the root causes of gun violence in ongoing policy discussions.
The tragic shooting at the “No Kings” protest in Salt Lake City resulting in the death of Arthur Folasa Ah Loo underscores the urgent need for enhanced security measures at public gatherings and a continued focus on addressing gun violence. With three suspects in custody and investigations underway, authorities and community leaders remain committed to ensuring justice and preventing future incidents. The call for calm and constructive dialogue by city and state officials highlights the importance of unity and safety amid ongoing discussions on public safety and violence prevention.
