SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — Investigators have revealed that a shooting outside a church in Salt Lake City, which resulted in two deaths and six injuries, stemmed from a conflict between acquaintances attending a funeral. The tragic event occurred Wednesday in the parking lot of a church belonging to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Authorities have not made any arrests and are investigating whether the incident may be gang-related. Witness cooperation has also been lacking, complicating the investigation. Five individuals involved in the shooting remain hospitalized, some in critical condition. Police Chief Brian Redd assured that the investigation is a priority, stating, “We are looking into the reason and cause for the gunfire.”
The shooting's victims were all adults, with at least three reported in critical condition. Among the deceased was Vaea Tulikaninifo, 46. Police have ruled out that the shooting was random or driven by animosity towards the church.
Witnesses recounted the terrifying moments as gunshots rang out, prompting neighbors to rush to aid the victims. Many attending the funeral were left devastated by the violence.
As the community mourns, Salt Lake City's Mayor Erin Mendenhall expressed sorrow, emphasizing that such violence should never occur outside a place of worship. The church has stated their commitment to support law enforcement while also offering prayers for those affected by the tragedy.
The incident has raised concerns within the local faith community, which has been on high alert following previous acts of violence against places of worship.
Authorities have not made any arrests and are investigating whether the incident may be gang-related. Witness cooperation has also been lacking, complicating the investigation. Five individuals involved in the shooting remain hospitalized, some in critical condition. Police Chief Brian Redd assured that the investigation is a priority, stating, “We are looking into the reason and cause for the gunfire.”
The shooting's victims were all adults, with at least three reported in critical condition. Among the deceased was Vaea Tulikaninifo, 46. Police have ruled out that the shooting was random or driven by animosity towards the church.
Witnesses recounted the terrifying moments as gunshots rang out, prompting neighbors to rush to aid the victims. Many attending the funeral were left devastated by the violence.
As the community mourns, Salt Lake City's Mayor Erin Mendenhall expressed sorrow, emphasizing that such violence should never occur outside a place of worship. The church has stated their commitment to support law enforcement while also offering prayers for those affected by the tragedy.
The incident has raised concerns within the local faith community, which has been on high alert following previous acts of violence against places of worship.
