Tragic Update: Marcher Dies from Injuries in Salt Lake City ‘No Kings’ Protest Shooting

Some 10,000 people gathered in downtown Salt Lake City to protest against President Trump on Saturday. The event was mostly peaceful but ended abruptly when three gunshots rang out. Chaos ensued as people fled the area.

Tragically, 39-year-old Arthur Folasa Ah Loo was shot and later died. Police believe he was hit by a stray bullet meant for another man, 24-year-old Arturo Gamboa. Gamboa was seen running into the crowd with a rifle and has been arrested on suspicion of murder, although he did not fire the weapon.

When officers apprehended Gamboa just minutes later, he was hiding among other protesters. He suffered a minor gunshot wound during the incident. A member of the protest’s safety team reportedly fired at Gamboa, and the shots unintentionally struck Ah Loo.

Ah Loo was a well-known fashion designer and former contestant on “Project Runway.” He was remembered by friends and family as an “innocent” participant in the protest. A GoFundMe page has been set up to support his family, including his wife and two children.

The protest was part of a nationwide movement against Trump’s policies, particularly around immigration and civil rights. Organizers emphasized a message of nonviolence, a stark contrast to the violence that erupted. In response to the shooting, community leaders and protest organizers expressed their grief and called for a peaceful dialogue.

Police Chief Brian Redd stated that the shooting was unexpected. He noted that safety measures were in place and that his team was prepared for a peaceful event. Redd emphasized that no one should fear attending lawful demonstrations in the city.

In light of this incident, experts in community safety stress the importance of de-escalation training for both demonstrators and law enforcement. The shooting highlights the potential dangers that can arise during large gatherings, even when the intent is peaceful.

According to a recent report from the National Institute of Justice, about 29 percent of protests in the U.S. experienced some form of violence over the last decade. This makes it crucial for event organizers to plan for safety and for police to facilitate and protect the expression of free speech.

Many people took to social media to express their shock and sorrow over the shooting. Reactions included calls for more conversations around community safety and the need for effective protest management. Amidst the tragedy, the community stands united, advocating for justice and peace.

As the investigation unfolds, both the police and community members hope to find answers and foster healing in the wake of this disturbing event.



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