Tragic Shooting at Utah Protest Claims Life of Fashion Designer

Arthur Ah Loo, head of the fashion house Afa Ah Loo, was a contestant on "Project Runway" Season 17 in 2018.

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A peaceful protest in Salt Lake City turned deadly on June 14, 2025, when a shooting left one man dead and another injured. The victim, Arthur Folasa Ah Loo, a 39-year-old fashion designer, was an innocent bystander, police say. Authorities have charged a suspect with murder as the investigation continues.

What Happened at the Protest?

On Saturday evening, hundreds gathered in Salt Lake City for a “No Kings” protest against President Donald Trump’s administration. The event was mostly calm until gunfire erupted around 7:56 p.m. near 151 South State Street. Salt Lake City Police Department (SLCPD) officers, already on the scene, rushed to respond.

Police found Arthur Ah Loo, a well-known fashion designer, shot and critically wounded. Officers, SWAT team members, and paramedics tried to save his life, but he died in the hospital. Authorities later confirmed Ah Loo was not the target of the shooting but an innocent bystander caught in the chaos.

Who Was Arthur Ah Loo?

Arthur Ah Loo, 39, was a trailblazing Samoan fashion designer born in Lotopa and Falelima, Samoa. He gained fame after appearing on Project Runway in 2019, becoming the first Samoan contestant on the show. He later returned for Project Runway Redemption, earning international recognition for his bold designs.

“Arthur was a vibrant soul who brought joy through his creativity,” said a friend in a statement to ABC Australia. His death has left his family, friends, and fans heartbroken.

The Suspect and the Shooting

Police identified the suspect as Arturo Gamboa, 24, who was also injured in the incident. According to the SLCPD, two volunteer peacekeepers at the protest noticed Gamboa acting suspiciously before the shooting. They saw him move to a secluded area, pull an AR-15-style rifle from a backpack, and hold it in a firing position.

The peacekeepers ordered Gamboa to drop the weapon. When he ran toward the crowd, they fired three shots. One bullet hit Gamboa, and another struck Ah Loo, causing his fatal injury. Gamboa was arrested and charged with murder, even though he did not fire the shot that killed Ah Loo.

Police say Gamboa showed “depraved indifference to human life” by creating a dangerous situation that led to Ah Loo’s death. The investigation is ongoing to determine his motives.

Police and Community Response

Salt Lake City Police Chief Brian Redd expressed deep sorrow over the incident. “Our hearts go out to Arthur Ah Loo’s family, friends, and the community affected by this tragedy,” Redd said in a statement. The SLCPD is working to understand the full details of the shooting and ensure justice is served.

The two peacekeepers who fired their weapons were detained but have not been charged as of June 16, 2025. Authorities are reviewing their actions to determine if they followed proper protocol.

Why Was the Protest Held?

The “No Kings” protest was one of several demonstrations across the U.S. in 2025, sparked by debates over President Trump’s policies following his return to office. Protesters in Salt Lake City called for unity and reform, but the event took a tragic turn with the shooting.

Local leaders have urged calm as the community grapples with the loss. “We stand together in mourning Arthur’s death and reject violence in our city,” said a community organizer at a vigil held on June 15.

What’s Next?

The investigation into the shooting continues, with police gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses. The Utah Office of the Medical Examiner is determining the official cause of Ah Loo’s death. Gamboa remains in custody, and his case will move through the legal system.

This tragedy has raised questions about safety at public demonstrations and the role of armed volunteers. Experts suggest communities may need clearer guidelines for protest security to prevent similar incidents.

As Salt Lake City heals, Arthur Ah Loo’s legacy as a talented designer and proud Samoan will live on. His death is a stark reminder of the need for peace and understanding in challenging times.

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