Shooting at Memorial Service in Utah Church

On Wednesday night, a memorial service at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Salt Lake City, Utah, was marred by a shooting that left two people dead and injured at least six others, according to authorities.

The Salt Lake City police reported that three of those injured were in critical condition. They mentioned that, while the suspect remains unidentified, officers have solid leads and are actively pursuing those responsible.

Police Chief Brian Redd confirmed that all the victims were adults and clarified, “We do not believe this is a targeted attack against religion.”

Officials from the church, commonly known as the Mormon Church, stated that the shooting took place outside the meeting hall during the chapel’s memorial service. They expressed their cooperation with law enforcement and gratitude towards first responders.

This particular meetinghouse serves a local Tongan community and holds services in Tongan.

A nearby resident described the scene, stating that he had seen someone on the ground, while others were attending to him, amidst crying and arguing. He and his wife noted that although gunshots are a frequent occurrence in their neighborhood, it was unusual for them to hear such close-range gunfire.

Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall expressed her sorrow, saying, “This tragedy should never have happened, but the fact that it occurred outside a place of worship during a celebration of life is especially heartbreaking.” She also expressed confidence in the police’s investigation to bring the suspect to justice and commended the quick response from emergency services.

The FBI’s Salt Lake City office stated they are aware of the incident and are providing support. Republican Utah State Sen. Mike Lee urged community members to pray for the victims and the church family.

This incident follows a targeted shooting and fire at an LDS Church in Michigan last September, which also resulted in fatalities and injuries.