The Salt Lake City community is reeling after a tragic shooting during a funeral service that claimed at least two lives and left several others injured near Redwood Road on Wednesday evening. The incident occurred in the parking lot of a Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints meetinghouse, where dozens of mourners had gathered inside for a memorial service when chaos erupted. Police confirmed that two people were killed and six others suffered gunshot wounds in the attack.
According to law enforcement, the shooting did not appear to be a random act of violence, but authorities stressed that they do not believe the church, religion, or funeral service was specifically targeted. Salt Lake City Police Chief Brian Redd noted that the investigation is ongoing, and no suspects were in custody at the time of reporting. A major law enforcement response — including roughly 100 vehicles and helicopters — was mobilized to secure the area and begin the search for those responsible.
Witnesses described a sudden and frightening escalation in the church parking lot, where what may have begun as a dispute quickly turned deadly. Dozens of mourners inside the church were stunned by the sound of gunfire, and first responders worked swiftly to assist the wounded and transport them to nearby hospitals.
Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall condemned the violence, saying that such an attack “should never have happened outside a place of worship or a celebration of life.” The identities of those killed — including whether one victim was Asi Sekona or another attendee — had not been fully released by officials at the time of reporting.
As family, friends, and the wider community mourn the loss of life and grapple with this senseless violence, prayer vigils and community tributes are expected in the coming days. Police continue to seek public tips and information as they pursue leads in the ongoing investigation.