Editor’s word: On June 16, 2025, through the 7 a.m. hour of “GMA,” ABC Information incorrectly said that somebody was shot by legislation enforcement. This isn’t the case. Police are investigating the taking pictures.
Salt Lake Metropolis police are investigating the roles of two self-described “peacekeepers” following a deadly taking pictures at Saturday’s protest that left one individual useless and one other injured, elevating questions on unauthorized safety at public demonstrations.
The 2 males, who have been sporting yellow “excessive visibility” vests through the incident, have been questioned and launched as investigators work to find out whether or not they have been appointed by protest organizers, volunteered or have been self-appointed.
Neither particular person has present or former legislation enforcement expertise, in line with the Salt Lake Metropolis Police Division (SLCPD).
The incident occurred throughout a “No Kings Day” protest that drew an estimated 10,000 individuals to Pioneer Park. In keeping with Salt Lake Metropolis Police, the violence erupted when two males, recognized as “peacekeepers” by police, confronted 24-year-old Arturo Roberto Gamboa after recognizing him allegedly pulling out and “manipulating” a rifle close to 151 S. State Avenue round 8 p.m.
Demonstrators carry indicators and chant whereas marching throughout a “No Kings” protest, June 14, 2025, in Salt Lake Metropolis.
Amanda Barrett/AP
“Witnesses say Gamboa raised the weapon in a firing place and started working towards the gang,” Salt Lake Metropolis Police Chief Brian Redd mentioned Sunday at a information convention.
One of many peacekeepers opened hearth, putting each Gamboa and an harmless bystander, Arthur Folasa “Afa” Ah Lavatory, 39. Ah Lavatory was killed within the incident, whereas Gamboa was wounded and later arrested, in line with police.
The protest was organized by 50501, a grassroots political group recognized for organizing rallies and protests nationwide.
In keeping with police, there was no report within the occasion’s allow indicating the presence of organized or armed safety, and investigators are nonetheless working to find out the whole variety of “peacekeepers” current on the rally.
The taking pictures prompted a swift response from state management. Utah Gov. Spencer Cox referred to as the incident “a deeply troubling act of violence” that “has no place in our public sq.” in an announcement Saturday evening. After talking with Salt Lake Metropolis Mayor Erin Mendenhall, Cox later posted on X: “My coronary heart is damaged for everybody impacted tonight.”
Whereas Utah legislation permits for firearm possession and use underneath sure circumstances, police say the legality of any particular person’s actions will rely on the particular particulars of the case.
The SLCPD’s murder detectives are working with the Salt Lake County District Legal professional’s Workplace to find out if using lethal drive was lawful underneath state legislation.
Police say Gamboa, who was discovered “crouching down amongst a small crowd of individuals” after the taking pictures, was wearing black clothes and a masks, and possessed an AR-15 fashion rifle, a gasoline masks, and a backpack. He has been booked into the Salt Lake County Jail for investigation of homicide, although police affirm he didn’t hearth any pictures.
The protest in Salt Lake Metropolis was a part of nationwide “No Kings Day” demonstrations that drew over 5 million contributors throughout the nation, in line with organizers. The protests have been held to counter the Trump administration and a army parade in Washington, D.C.
The investigation stays ongoing, with SLCPD murder detectives working carefully with the Salt Lake County District Legal professional’s Workplace. The division has requested that anybody with pictures or movies of the incident add them to their proof portal.
“Our detectives at the moment are working to totally examine the circumstances surrounding this incident,” Redd mentioned in a press launch. “We won’t enable this particular person act to create worry in our group.”
