Tragic Shooting at Utah’s ‘No Kings’ Rally: Protester Loses Life, Police Report

A tragic incident unfolded during the “No Kings” protest in Salt Lake City where a man, believed to be part of a peacekeeping group, fired shots at a person wielding a rifle. Unfortunately, a bystander was also shot and later died at the hospital.

The suspect, 24-year-old Arturo Gamboa, is now in custody facing murder charges. Salt Lake City Police Chief Brian Redd announced this at a press briefing, revealing that the bystander was identified as 39-year-old Arthur Folasa Ah Loo, a fashion designer known for his vibrant celebrations of Samoan culture.

Police are still investigating the reasons behind Gamboa’s actions. He allegedly escalated the situation by brandishing a rifle, creating chaos among the protesters. As of now, there’s no available legal representation for Gamboa.

The man in the neon green vest, believed to be part of the peacekeepers, fired three shots, injuring Gamboa but fatally wounding Ah Loo. This peacekeeper’s identity has not been disclosed.

Sarah Parker, a national coordinator for the 50501 Movement, noted that volunteer peacekeeping teams are common during protests. However, organizers discourage attendees from bringing weapons. She believes that their presence may have helped prevent a larger tragedy.

Ah Loo, who went by Afa, was a devoted family man with two children. He was not only a fashion designer but also the founder of Creative Pacific, which showcases the diversity of Pacific cultures. He also competed on “Project Runway,” bringing attention to his heritage.

Eyewitnesses reported panic among the crowd as the gunshots rang out. Protesters quickly scattered for safety, some seeking refuge behind barriers or inside nearby businesses. A witness recounted the moment on social media, capturing the chaos that ensued.

Across the country, “No Kings” protests were organized to voice opposition against perceived authoritarianism under former President Donald Trump. While tensions were evident, most confrontations were isolated.

In nearby Riverside, California, an SUV struck a protester, who sustained serious injuries but is stable. Meanwhile, another protest in Arizona was disrupted when a masked individual brandished a handgun, leading to further chaos.

Back in Salt Lake City, as Gamboa prepared to confront the peacekeepers, they saw him withdraw the rifle from behind a wall. Eyewitnesses described the scene as he raised it, creating a life-threatening situation that compelled the peacekeepers to react.

Gamboa was later treated for his injuries before being booked into jail. Authorities recovered various items at the scene, including the rifle and a gas mask, indicating the potential for further violence had the situation escalated.

This incident raises critical questions about safety at protests and the role of peacekeepers, especially in the current climate where tensions often run high. Experts emphasize that while peaceful demonstrations are vital for democracy, ensuring safety remains a top priority.

The consequences of such incidents resonate deeply within communities, especially for those who lose loved ones. Ah Loo’s legacy will continue through his family and the cultural contributions he made during his life.

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