Salt Lake City, Utah — A shooting during a protest on June 14 has resulted in the death of 39-year-old fashion designer Arthur Folasa Ah Loo. Authorities confirmed he was struck by gunfire while attending a demonstration against the administration of former President Donald Trump. Initially hospitalized, Ah Loo succumbed to his injuries shortly after the incident.
The Salt Lake City Police Department reported that the chaos erupted around 7:56 p.m. when gunfire was heard at 151 South State Street. Officers quickly responded to the scene and discovered Ah Loo, who had been critically injured. Emergency services from the police SWAT team and local fire departments attempted life-saving measures, but he later died in the hospital.
Police characterized Ah Loo as an innocent bystander, clarifying that he was not the intended target in the shooting. His cause of death will be determined by the Utah Office of the Medical Examiner. Salt Lake City Police Chief Brian Redd expressed condolences for Ah Loo’s family and friends, acknowledging the trauma experienced by attendees of the protest.
Witnesses reported that 24-year-old Arturo Gamboa, identified as the shooter, displayed concerning behavior prior to the incident. Gamboa allegedly took an AR-15-style rifle from a backpack and moved to a secluded area behind a wall before heading towards the crowd with the weapon raised. In response, two peacekeepers at the event intervened, prompting Gamboa to run towards the assembled protesters while wielding the firearm.
In the chaos, shots were exchanged, resulting in Gamboa suffering a gunshot wound and Ah Loo being struck fatally. Gamboa, who survived the incident, has been charged with murder. Investigators noted that he allegedly acted recklessly in a manner that posed a grave risk to others, leading to the death of an innocent person.
The investigation into the shooting remains ongoing. As authorities gather details, many community members and attendees of the protest are grappling with the aftermath of the tragedy. Ah Loo, a beloved figure known for his appearance on “Project Runway” in 2019, leaves behind a legacy of creativity and artistry.
Born in Samoa, he made history as the first Samoan contestant on the popular design competition. His contributions to fashion earned him respect within the industry, leaving grieving admirers to reflect on the impact of his life as they process the loss.
As the community mourns, there are calls for greater awareness and discussions around gun violence, especially in the context of peaceful demonstrations. The incident has ignited concerns over safety at protests, a sentiment echoed by local leaders and law enforcement.