SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — A heartfelt memorial service took a tragic turn when gunfire erupted outside a church in Salt Lake City, resulting in two fatalities and six injuries. As attendees honored a loved one inside, pain spilled over into violence in the parking lot.
According to local officials, the incident unfolded at a Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, where the congregation largely consists of Tongan members and services are often conducted in their native language. While searching for the shooter, authorities announced no one was in custody.
We don’t believe this was a targeted attack against a religion or anything like that, stated Salt Lake City Police Chief Brian Redd. Most victims were adults, and several remain in critical condition.
A nearby resident, Brennan McIntire, witnessed the chaos firsthand, describing the harrowing scene as neighbors rushed to assist the injured. McIntire and his wife, Kenna, reported hearing the gunshots from their home and were struck by the heart-wrenching sight of victims being attended to. It was really heartbreaking to hear and see, she remarked.
Emergency services responded with dozens of law enforcement vehicles swarming the area, while helicopters hovered above. Local police are reviewing video footage from nearby businesses to aid in the investigation.
Mayor Erin Mendenhall expressed outrage, stating, This should never have happened outside a place of worship. This should never have happened outside a celebration of life. The church, which cooperated fully with law enforcement, also extended prayers for all impacted, emphasizing their commitment to ensuring safety in sacred spaces.
This incident has reignited discussions about community safety and violence prevention, as residents reflect on the frequency of gunfire in their neighborhoods.
