SALT LAKE CITY, Utah — A peaceful demonstration in downtown Salt Lake City ended in tragedy Saturday evening when a private peacekeeper opened fire after confronting an armed man, killing an innocent bystander. Authorities identified the suspect as 24-year-old Arturo Gamboa, a Utah resident with no prior criminal history. Gamboa was arrested at the scene and has been charged with murder.
The shooting occurred around 8:00 p.m. near 100 South and 200 East during a “No Kings Day” protest. According to Salt Lake City Police Chief Brian Redd, officers nearby heard the gunfire and responded immediately. When they arrived, they found 39-year-old Arthur Folasa Ah Loo lying on the ground with a gunshot wound. Despite efforts by medics and SWAT personnel, Ah Loo was later pronounced dead at a nearby hospital.
Police said the situation escalated when Gamboa, carrying an AR-15-style rifle, separated from the crowd and was seen hiding briefly behind a wall before emerging with the weapon. Two individuals, believed to be private security assigned to the protest, saw Gamboa raise the rifle and approach the crowd. Fearing a possible mass shooting, one of the peacekeepers fired three rounds from a handgun.
One bullet struck Gamboa in the abdomen, while another fatally hit Ah Loo, who was not involved in the confrontation. Gamboa attempted to flee by blending into the crowd, but bystanders pointed him out to officers. He was taken into custody without further incident. Police recovered the rifle, a gas mask, and a backpack from his possession. Investigators later confirmed that Gamboa never fired his weapon.
Although all shots were fired by the private security guard, Gamboa was charged with murder. Under Utah law, individuals can face such charges if their actions lead to circumstances that result in a death. Authorities say the case is still under review, and further charges could be filed depending on the outcome of the investigation.
The tragic incident has raised new concerns about the presence of armed individuals at public gatherings. Police are asking anyone with information, video, or firsthand accounts of the shooting to contact law enforcement. As the community mourns the death of Arthur Ah Loo, questions remain about how a peaceful protest turned into a deadly confrontation.
