In brief
The widow of Arthur Folasa Ah Loo, a respected fashion designer shot during a protest in Salt Lake City, is calling for accountability after more than four months without charges. Laura Ah Loo stated that her husband always sought justice and now she seeks it for him. The case centers on an individual from a peacekeeping team who fired at a man brandishing a rifle, resulting in Ah Loo's tragic death. With ongoing investigations and a potential wrongful death lawsuit on the horizon, the family's battle for justice continues amidst renewed protests calling for change.
SALT LAKE CITY — The widow of Arthur Folasa Ah Loo, a beloved fashion designer, has taken a stand demanding accountability for his death following a shooting at a protest in June. Four months after the incident, Laura Ah Loo addressed the media, urging authorities to take action in a case that has seen no charges filed against those involved.
Afa, as he was affectionately known, was fatally shot on June 15 when a volunteer peacekeeper fired upon a man identified as Arturo Gamboa, who was brandishing a rifle during a 'No Kings' protest. The gunfire struck Ah Loo instead of the rifleman, ultimately leading to his death shortly thereafter.
During a press conference, Laura expressed her determination to carry on her husband's legacy of seeking justice, stating, 'Afa always stood for those who needed justice the most. And now I stand for him, on his behalf, for his sake and for all of us. The world is watching.'
Initial police responses resulted in Gamboa's arrest; however, he has not been charged. Investigators are currently analyzing whether the volunteer's actions in shooting were justified. Laura's legal team plans to pursue a wrongful death suit against the unidentified peacekeeper, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability from law enforcement.
'This is not a whodunit,' stated Richard Lambert, representing Laura in the upcoming lawsuit. 'We know who did it. We know who fired the fatal shot that took Afa’s life.'
In light of the ongoing protests that continue to address concerns about perceived authoritarianism under the current administration, thousands gathered on October 18 to show unity and demand justice for Ah Loo's family. Various experts have weighed in, suggesting that while a civil suit may be feasible, proving criminal charges could face substantial challenges due to self-defense laws present in Utah.
The case remains in limbo as the Salt Lake County District Attorney, Sim Gill, indicated that while he sympathizes with the family, legal analyses are complex and ongoing.
