Fact Check: "On June 14, 2025, during a demonstration in Salt Lake City, a man named Arturo Gamboa, 24, was taken into custody on a murder charge after he allegedly brandished a rifle and shot at demonstrators, resulting in the death of bystander Arthur Folasa Ah Loo, 39."
What We Know
On June 14, 2025, a shooting incident occurred during the "No Kings" demonstration in downtown Salt Lake City. The Salt Lake City Police Department (SLCPD) reported that at approximately 7:56 PM, gunfire erupted near 151 South State Street, where an estimated 10,000 participants were gathered for the demonstration. The police confirmed that a man named Arthur Folasa Ah Loo, 39, was shot and later died at the hospital, identified as an innocent bystander who was not the intended target of the gunfire (SLCPD Update, New York Times).
The alleged shooter, Arturo Gamboa, 24, was found by police after witnesses pointed him out. He was described as wearing all black clothing and a black mask. Officers discovered an AR-15-style rifle, a gas mask, and a backpack near him. Gamboa was taken into custody and charged with murder, as he allegedly displayed behavior that indicated a "depraved indifference to human life" (Politico, CNN).
Analysis
The details surrounding the incident have been corroborated by multiple sources, including the SLCPD and major news outlets. The police chief, Brian Redd, confirmed the sequence of events leading to the shooting, stating that Gamboa had moved away from the crowd and began handling a rifle before running toward demonstrators while holding the weapon in a firing position. This prompted a peacekeeper at the event to fire at Gamboa, resulting in both Gamboa being wounded and Ah Loo being fatally shot (SLCPD Update, Hindustan Times).
The reliability of the sources is strong, as the SLCPD's official statements provide a detailed account of the incident, supported by eyewitness reports and police investigations. The New York Times and other reputable news outlets have reported on the incident, confirming the police's findings and providing context about the demonstration and the actions taken by law enforcement (New York Times, ABC7 Chicago).
However, it is important to note that the investigation is ongoing, and while Gamboa has been charged with murder, he is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The police have also indicated that they are examining the actions of the peacekeepers involved in the incident (SLCPD Update, CNN).
Conclusion
The claim that Arturo Gamboa was taken into custody on a murder charge after brandishing a rifle and shooting at demonstrators, resulting in the death of Arthur Folasa Ah Loo, is True. The evidence from multiple credible sources confirms the sequence of events and the identities of those involved.
Sources
- SLCPD Provides Update on Downtown Shooting Investigation
- 1 Killed in Shooting at 'No Kings' Protest in Salt Lake City
- Protester shot and killed at 'No Kings' rally in Utah, police say
- Protester shot and killed at 'No Kings' rally in Utah, police say
- Who was Arthur Folasa Ah Loo, Salt Lake's 'No Kings' protest shooting victim?
- ‘No Kings’ protest shooting Salt Lake City: Arturo Gamboa in custody
