Salt Lake City Mourns After Fatal Shooting at “No Kings” Protest: Arthur Folasa Ah Loo Remembered
SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH — What began as a peaceful and powerful expression of civic unity and resistance turned tragically violent on Saturday night, June 14, as Salt Lake City was rocked by the fatal shooting of a protester during the widely attended “No Kings” demonstration. The victim has been identified as 39-year-old Arthur Folasa Ah Loo, a respected member of the local community whose life was cut short amidst the chaos.
The demonstration, held near 151 S. State Street, had drawn an estimated 10,000 participants, a diverse group of citizens gathering to speak out against systems of oppression, advocate for social justice, and express democratic ideals. The event had been largely peaceful throughout the day, filled with chants, banners, and speeches until it took a dark and devastating turn.
According to Salt Lake City Police, gunfire erupted late in the evening near the heart of the protest. Emergency services—including SWAT medics and members of the Salt Lake City Fire Department—were immediately on the scene and rendered aid to Mr. Ah Loo, who had sustained life-threatening injuries. He was rushed to a nearby hospital, but tragically, he succumbed to his wounds shortly thereafter.
Authorities have yet to release the full details surrounding the shooting, including whether the incident was targeted or random, or if any arrests have been made. Investigators are actively reviewing surveillance footage, interviewing witnesses, and piecing together the sequence of events. A heavy police presence remained in the area overnight and into Sunday morning as the scene was processed.
“This is a heartbreaking loss for our city and a blow to a movement rooted in peace and solidarity,” said one protest organizer, holding back tears during a vigil held Sunday evening. “Arthur was not just a protester—he was a son, a friend, a citizen standing for what he believed in. He didn’t deserve to die for exercising his rights.”
Social media has since been flooded with messages of grief and outrage, as friends, family members, and fellow demonstrators shared memories of Arthur Folasa Ah Loo—many describing him as gentle, principled, and deeply committed to community engagement. His presence at rallies, his voice in local forums, and his encouragement of others to participate in the democratic process had made him a beloved figure in local activist circles.
Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall issued a statement on Sunday afternoon, expressing condolences and calling for unity:
“This tragedy should never have happened. We mourn with Arthur’s family and the entire community today. Violence has no place in our public discourse, and we will ensure that this incident is fully investigated and justice pursued.”
The “No Kings” movement, which began as a decentralized coalition of activists calling for systemic change, has vowed to continue their advocacy while also dedicating future efforts to honoring Ah Loo’s memory. Plans are already underway for a memorial march next weekend.
The Salt Lake City Police Department is urging anyone who may have recorded video or has additional information to come forward.
Call: (801) 799-3000 or submit tips anonymously through SLCPD’s tip line.
In Memory of Arthur Folasa Ah Loo
A life taken too soon, but a legacy that will not be silenced. May his courage inspire continued peace, and may his voice echo through every step taken in pursuit of justice.
If you or someone you know is affected by this event and needs support, resources are available:
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Utah Crisis Line: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
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Salt Lake City Victim Advocacy Program: (801) 580-7969
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Mental health walk-in centers are open 24/7 throughout Salt Lake County.