SALT LAKE CITY — Utah authorities are turning to the public for assistance in deciphering responsibilities in a tragic incident at the “No Kings” rally over the weekend. During the event, a safety volunteer fired at a man he believed was a threat, but the shots inadvertently resulted in the death of another protester.
The safety volunteer, whose identity remains confidential, discharged three bullets at Arturo Gamboa, 24, whom he presumed was threatening the crowd with a rifle in the heart of Salt Lake City. Both Gamboa and protester Arthur Folasa Ah Loo were struck by the gunfire, according to local police reports.
Gamboa, who never discharged his rifle, was apprehended on suspicion of murder, accused of instigating the perilous situation that cost Ah Loo his life. As of midweek, no formal charges were lodged against him.
Law enforcement is also evaluating whether the safety volunteer’s actions were warranted. To aid their investigation, police are requesting bystanders to come forward with any available videos or photos of the shooting.
Salt Lake County District Attorney Sim Gill announced that by Thursday, a decision must be made to release Gamboa, charge him, or extend his detention. Gamboa’s intentions with the rifle remain unclear. His father, Albert Gamboa, communicated with the press, emphasizing his son’s innocence and lamenting his situation.
In Utah, the open-carry law allows lawful gun owners to bear arms in public spaces. This incident has sparked discussions about the complexities of such laws, especially in crowded protest settings, where identifying lawful firearm use can be challenging.
The protest, attended by around 18,000 individuals, was part of numerous national demonstrations against President Donald Trump’s military parade in Washington, marking a significant military anniversary. Despite the somber incident, the event proceeded largely without disturbances.
Witness accounts detail the unfolding of events at roughly 8 p.m., where Gamboa allegedly removed a rifle from his backpack, prompting the safety volunteer and another individual to draw their weapons and command him to disarm. Understandingly, this led the safety volunteer to fire, fearing Gamboa was a threat, inadvertently causing Ah Loo’s fatal injuries.
The involvement of armed safety volunteers at such demonstrations is an anomaly. Typically, these individuals, known as safety marshals, employ non-violent methods and maintain liaison with law enforcement to uphold order, noted criminal justice expert Edward Maguire.
Organizers from the 50501 Movement, behind the “No Kings” protest, shared that volunteers, chosen for their de-escalation expertise, intervene only when immediate danger is perceived. However, weapons are generally discouraged among participants, adding uncertainty to the current investigation.
Arthur Folasa Ah Loo, the deceased protester, was a cherished figure in the fashion community and a former “Project Runway” contestant, known for uplifting artists from Pacific Islands. The tragedy has left behind his family, friends, and a legacy of contributions to his community.
Ah Loo’s partner Benjamin Powell shared plans to commemorate his friend’s dedication at an upcoming fashion event, ensuring his community spirit endures.
This article was originally released on June 18, 2025, and later revised to correct the first name of the district attorney involved.