Fact Check: Utah Governor Spencer Cox Described the Shooting at the 'No Kings' Protest as a 'Deeply Troubling Act of Violence'
What We Know
On June 14, 2025, a shooting occurred during the "No Kings" protest in Salt Lake City, Utah, resulting in two people being shot, including the suspect. Following the incident, Utah Governor Spencer Cox issued a statement describing the shooting as a "deeply troubling act of violence" that "has no place in our public square" (source-4). This statement was made shortly after the shooting, around 9 p.m. on the same day (source-4).
Analysis
The claim that Governor Spencer Cox described the shooting as a "deeply troubling act of violence" is supported by multiple sources. His statement was reported by several news outlets, including the Salt Lake Tribune and Idaho Capital Sun, confirming the content and context of his remarks (source-4, source-6).
Cox's statement reflects a broader concern regarding public safety during protests, especially in light of recent events across the United States where protests have turned violent. His emphasis on the need for accountability and the condemnation of violence aligns with his previous warnings about potential unrest during protests (source-3).
The sources reporting on this incident are credible, including established news organizations such as the Associated Press and the Salt Lake Tribune, which have a history of reliable reporting. The statements made by Governor Cox were also disseminated through official channels, including his social media account (source-8).
Conclusion
The claim that Utah Governor Spencer Cox described the shooting at the "No Kings" protest as a "deeply troubling act of violence" is True. This conclusion is supported by direct quotes from his statement and corroborated by multiple reputable news sources.
Sources
- Gov. Cox delivers his 2024 State of the State address - Utah Governor's Office
- Utah governor declares emergency ahead of expected protests - Associated Press
- Gov. Cox warns protesters against violence in Utah, says state is prepared - Salt Lake Tribune
- 2 people shot, including suspect in custody, during ‘No Kings’ protest in Salt Lake City, Utah - Idaho Capital Sun
- With eye on LA protests, Gov. Cox warns Utah will be 'overprepared' - Herald Extra
- Utah leaders condemn deadly shooting at ‘No Kings’ protest - Salt Lake Tribune
- Utah will be 'overprepared' should violent protests break out, Governor - Fox 13 Now
- Governor Cox on X - X (formerly Twitter)
