Veteran Fatally Shoots Protester While Confronting Armed Man at Salt Lake City Rally

A shocking incident occurred during a peaceful “No Kings” rally in Salt Lake City over the weekend, as a military veteran serving as a safety volunteer shot and killed a fellow protester while trying to disarm an alleged gunman.

On Saturday evening, approximately 10,000 demonstrators gathered and marched through the downtown area. Authorities report that the veteran discharged three shots at 24-year-old Arturo Gamboa, who was allegedly observed retrieving a rifle from a backpack and aiming it in a “firing position” close to the crowd. One of the bullets tragically claimed the life of Arthur Folasa Ah Loo, a cherished figure in the community and a talented fashion designer.

Gamboa, who did not discharge the firearm, suffered minor injuries and was apprehended in the vicinity. A murder charge has been brought against him, with authorities stating that his actions contributed to the circumstances surrounding Ah Loo’s death. Authorities discovered a rifle, a gas mask, and a backpack at the location.

Officials are looking into the legality of the veteran's use of force. The individual’s identity remains undisclosed; however, representatives from the 50501 Movement have confirmed that he was a member of a safety team comprising military veterans and first responders skilled in de-escalation techniques.

The organization reported that their volunteers felt Gamboa represented an immediate danger to the audience. Nonetheless, the organizers of the protest emphasized that all attendees, including those responsible for safety, were directed to refrain from bringing any weapons.

Ah Loo, 39, recognized in the fashion world as Afa, was a Samoan-born designer and a former contestant on “Project Runway,” having resided in Utah for ten years. He is survived by his wife and their two young children. Friends remember him as someone who devoted his life to supporting Pacific Islander artists and had plans to headline a fashion show this August — an event that is now being reimagined as a tribute.

“This was a peaceful demonstration,” stated State Rep. Verona Mauga. “Arthur passed away safeguarding a vision, and that vision will endure.”