UPDATE: A mass shooting outside a church in Salt Lake City during a funeral has left two people dead and six others injured. The incident unfolded in the parking lot of a building belonging to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on October 25, 2023, and authorities report that it stemmed from a dispute among attendees.
No arrests have been made as police investigate the situation. Witnesses are reportedly hesitant to cooperate, complicating the investigation. Five victims remain hospitalized, with at least three in critical condition, according to the latest updates from law enforcement.
The deceased have been identified as Vaea Tulikaninifo, aged 46, and Sione Vatuvei, aged 38. Salt Lake City Police Chief Brian Redd confirmed that the shooting was not random and appears to be unrelated to any anti-religious sentiment.
Witness accounts reveal a scene of chaos. Residents from a nearby low-income housing complex rushed to help after hearing several gunshots. Local resident Brennan McIntire described the moment he heard the gunfire: “As soon as I came over, I see someone on the ground. People are attending to him and crying and arguing.” His wife, Kenna McIntire, expressed the heartbreak of witnessing the aftermath, saying, “It was really heartbreaking to hear and see.”
Emergency responders flooded the area, with over 100 law enforcement vehicles responding to the shooting. Helicopters circled overhead as neighbors watched from a distance, seeking updates beside a taco truck. Mayor Erin Mendenhall condemned the violence, stating, “This should never have happened outside a place of worship. This should never have happened outside a celebration of life.”
The church community, primarily serving Tongan congregants, is cooperating fully with law enforcement. Church spokesperson Sam Penrod expressed deep concern over the incident, stating, “We extend prayers for all who have been impacted by this tragedy and express deep concern that any sacred space intended for worship should be subjected to violence of any kind.”
As the investigation unfolds, police are reviewing surveillance footage and license plate data from nearby businesses to identify potential suspects. The community remains on edge, grappling with the disturbing reality of violence in a place meant for peace.
Authorities urge anyone with information to come forward as they work to bring justice to the victims and their families. This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by communities in maintaining safety and peace.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.
