At least eight people were shot Wednesday night in a mass shooting that occurred outside a church in Salt Lake City, Utah, while mourners were inside attending a memorial service for a funeral, law enforcement officials confirmed. The incident unfolded in the parking lot of a Church of Jesus Christ of Latter‑day Saints meetinghouse on Redwood Road just after 7:30 p.m. local time.
Casualties and Immediate Aftermath:
Two adults were killed in the shooting, and six others were wounded, including at least three people in critical condition.
All victims were adults attending or present near the memorial service, according to police statements.
The injured were transported to local hospitals; authorities have not released further details on their identities or current conditions.
Location and Context:
The shooting took place in the parking lot of the LDS church in Salt Lake City’s northwest neighborhood, where mourners had gathered for a memorial event inside the building.
Police early in the investigation indicated the shooting did not appear to be a targeted attack against the church or its congregation, and there was no evidence at the time of religious or bias motivation.
Suspect Status and Investigation:
No suspects were in custody immediately following the shooting, and a manhunt or active investigation was underway as law enforcement reviewed surveillance footage and other evidence from the scene.
Police noted that the circumstances leading up to the gunfire and any possible connection between the dispute and the memorial service were still under investigation.
Community and Official Responses:
Authorities, including Salt Lake City Police Chief Brian Redd, expressed sorrow over the violent outbreak near a place of worship and emphasized that the community was grieving and in shock.
Local elected officials and church representatives issued condolences and urged residents to cooperate with the investigation and support victims’ families.
Ongoing Efforts:
Police continue to follow leads and encourage the public to provide any information that may help identify suspects or clarify the motive, as the broader community mourns the lives lost and those injured in what officials are treating as a serious, active case.
