SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — A heartbreaking shooting incident erupted in the rear parking lot of a church in Salt Lake City on Wednesday night, resulting in two deaths and injuries to six others while a memorial service was taking place inside, officials report.
The tragic event unfolded at a house of worship belonging to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, commonly referred to as the Mormon church. Authorities have stated that no suspects have been apprehended as of Wednesday night.
Among the eight total victims, all adults, at least three are reported to be in critical condition, according to police statements.
In light of this past incident, Salt Lake City Police Chief Brian Redd shared insights, expressing that the shooting does not appear to have been an attack motivated by animus towards any particular faith and is not considered a random act either.
Confirming the church's community focus, the red brick building primarily serves Tongan congregants, offering services in their native language.
Upon hearing the gunfire, residents from a nearby low-income housing complex rushed to assist victims and comfort attendees of the funeral inside.
As Brennan McIntire recounted the scene, he and his wife heard multiple gunshots from their apartment next door, prompting him to rush outdoors. As soon as I came over, I see someone on the ground... People are attending to him and crying and arguing, he recalled.
Kenna McIntire echoed the emotional turmoil, stating it was distressing to witness first responders carrying an unconscious woman into an ambulance while others grieved. The couple noted that gunshots are a common occurrence in their neighborhood but expressed it was startling to experience such violence directly outside their home.
After the shooting occurred, law enforcement arrived in droves, tallying around 100 vehicles on-site, with helicopters circling above as neighbors clustered nearby, expressing concern and waiting for news.
The police are examining nearby surveillance videos and license plate readers to aid in their search for the perpetrator.
Mayor Erin Mendenhall voiced her distress regarding the event, emphasizing, “This should never have happened outside a place of worship. This should never have happened outside a celebration of life.”
The church has publicly expressed gratitude for the swift response of first responders, offering prayers for those affected by this tragedy and voicing a profound concern regarding the violence experienced in a sacred space.
Utah, home to about 3.5 million residents, comprises a significant number of Latter-day Saints, with numerous houses of worship scattered across local neighborhoods. The community remains on heightened alert following previous violent incidents targeting members of their faith.
