New Details Released in June 14 Salt Lake City Protest Shooting That Claimed the Life of Innocent Bystander
New Details Released in June 14 Salt Lake City Protest Shooting That Claimed the Life of Innocent Bystander
SALT LAKE CITY, Utah — Authorities have released new information surrounding the tragic events that unfolded during the June 14 “No Kings” demonstration in downtown Salt Lake City, where a peaceful protest was marred by sudden violence, leaving one man dead and a community in mourning.
The victim, 39-year-old Arthur Folasa Ah Loo, was fatally shot while attending the permitted demonstration. According to investigators with the Salt Lake City Police Department, Ah Loo was not involved in any altercation or instigation of violence and is believed to have been an innocent bystander caught in the chaos.
The suspect, 24-year-old Arturo Gamboa, has been arrested and booked into jail on a charge of murder. Detectives allege that Gamboa raised an AR-15-style rifle and began running toward the crowd. In response to this apparent threat, a separate individual—whose identity has not yet been released—fired three rounds, one of which tragically struck Mr. Ah Loo, fatally wounding him.
The shooting occurred in the midst of what had been a peaceful gathering in support of civil liberties and anti-authoritarian ideals. The demonstration, part of the “No Kings” movement, had received proper permits and had been largely uneventful until the eruption of gunfire that sent demonstrators scattering in fear and confusion.
Salt Lake City Police Chief Brian Redd addressed the incident publicly, expressing deep condolences to the family and friends of Mr. Ah Loo, and to all who were present during the traumatic event.
“This is a tragic loss of life,” Chief Redd said. “Mr. Ah Loo was not involved in any violence. He was simply in the wrong place at the wrong time. Our hearts go out to his loved ones, and we are doing everything in our power to ensure that justice is served.”
Chief Redd also praised the swift and professional response of law enforcement personnel, who arrived quickly on scene, secured the area, rendered aid, and began a thorough investigation amid a chaotic environment.
“Our officers responded quickly, bravely, and with professionalism,” he added. “Their actions prevented what could have been an even more devastating outcome.”
Authorities are now asking for the public’s help in gathering digital evidence that may aid the ongoing investigation. Investigators are requesting that anyone who attended the protest and has photos or videos taken before, during, or immediately after the shooting upload them using a secure QR code that has been distributed through police channels and media partners.
Salt Lake City Police are working to determine the full scope of what led up to the shooting, including Gamboa’s motives, how he came to be armed at the demonstration, and the legal implications surrounding the return fire that struck Ah Loo.
For now, a family is left grieving a life taken too soon, and a city is grappling with the senselessness of violence interrupting peaceful civic action.
The investigation remains active, and updates will be provided as new information becomes available. Anyone with information is urged to contact Salt Lake City Police or submit digital evidence via the QR code portal.