SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — Investigators are piecing together a tragic shooting that unfolded outside a church in Salt Lake City that resulted in two fatalities and left six others injured. The incident occurred in the parking lot of a house of worship while attendees were gathering for a funeral service.
According to police, the shooting arose from a dispute among known associates rather than being a random act of violence or one motivated by religious animus. Salt Lake City Police Chief Brian Redd confirmed the situation remains fluid, with officials struggling to secure cooperation from witnesses.
Five of the injured remain in hospitals, with some in critical condition, prompting police presence at healthcare facilities to ensure safety and support.
“We are investigating the reasons that led to this gunfire,” Chief Redd stated. The victims were all adults, and police continue to seek insights from the community to unravel the complex circumstances of the case.
The church involved primarily serves a Tongan congregation and holds services in their native tongue. Church spokesperson Sam Penrod expressed gratitude for first responders' swift actions and conveyed prayers for those affected by this event. A sacred space intended for worship should not witness violence, Penrod remarked.
Residents from nearby areas described the shock of hearing gunfire. One witness, Brennan McIntire, recounted racing outside to aid those injured, while his wife, Kenna, was visibly shaken by the heart-wrenching scene of first responders in action.
Mayor Erin Mendenhall condemned the shooting, reinforcing that such acts should never occur during a celebration of life. The police are examining surveillance footage, as well as license plate data, as part of their investigation to locate those responsible.
This tragic incident strikes a chord with the community, especially following heightened warnings faced by religious groups in the area after a recent shooting that took place in a Michigan church.
