Two Dead and Six Injured in Shooting Outside Salt Lake City LDS Church During Funeral
SALT LAKE CITY, Utah — A tragic shooting unfolded Wednesday evening outside a meetinghouse of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, leaving two people dead and six others wounded, including three in critical condition. The incident occurred in the parking lot of the church located at 660 North Redwood Road while mourners gathered for a funeral service.
According to the Salt Lake City Police Department, the suspect remains at large as officers conduct an extensive search of the area from Redwood Road to the Jordan River. Authorities have not yet released a detailed description of the suspect’s vehicle or other identifying information. Police have urged the public to avoid the vicinity as the investigation continues.
Some victims were transported to local hospitals by private vehicles before first responders arrived on the scene, highlighting the chaotic and urgent nature of the response. The church issued a statement expressing deep sorrow over the violence that shattered what was meant to be a sacred space for worship and remembrance. “The Church is cooperating with law enforcement and is grateful for the efforts of first responders,” the statement read. It also extended prayers to those affected by the tragedy and condemned any violence occurring in places of worship.
Senator Mike Lee of Utah condemned the shooting as an act of “senseless violence,” calling on the community to pray for the victims and their families. He also urged anyone with information about the perpetrators to contact local law enforcement immediately.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Salt Lake City field office confirmed it is aware of the incident and is providing assistance to local authorities. Meanwhile, special agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives’ Denver office have joined the investigation to support the search and evidence gathering. The coordinated effort reflects the seriousness with which federal and local agencies are treating the case.
This shooting comes amid a broader national conversation about violence in places of worship, a topic that has prompted increased security measures at religious institutions across the country. The Department of Justice, through agencies like the ATF and the FBI, has been actively involved in responding to and investigating such incidents to enhance community safety.
The Salt Lake City Police Department continues to seek public assistance and encourages anyone with information to reach out through official channels. Updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
For more information on how to stay safe and report suspicious activity, residents can refer to resources provided by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security. These agencies offer guidance on emergency preparedness and community vigilance.
As the community mourns the loss and prays for the injured, authorities remain committed to bringing those responsible to justice and preventing further violence in sacred spaces.
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