SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — A tragic shooting occurred outside a Salt Lake City church on Wednesday night, resulting in two fatalities and six injuries while mourners attended a memorial service inside the building, according to police reports.
The violent incident took place in the back parking lot of a church affiliated with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, more commonly known as the Mormon church. Authorities have confirmed that all victims were adults, with at least three sustaining critical injuries.
No suspect was reported to be in custody by the end of the night. Salt Lake City Police Chief Brian Redd stated, We don’t believe this was a targeted attack against a religion or anything like that, adding that authorities do not consider it a random shooting either.
Residents from a nearby low-income housing complex quickly rushed outside upon hearing the gunshots, rendering assistance to the victims and offering comfort to attendees of an unannounced funeral service.
Brennan McIntire, a witness residing next to the church, recalled the terrifying moments when he heard several gunshots while watching TV with his spouse. Concerned, he rushed outside only to find people tending to an injured man on the ground.
His wife, Kenna McIntire, expressed her shock at seeing emergency responders carry an unconscious woman into an ambulance amidst an emotionally charged atmosphere. The couple has become accustomed to hearing gunshots in their neighborhood but described the chaos and heartbreak of this particular incident as unprecedented.
The aftermath of the incident saw around 100 law enforcement vehicles present at the scene, supported by helicopters flying overhead. Police are currently reviewing license plate readers and surveillance videos from nearby businesses as part of their investigation.
Mayor Erin Mendenhall conveyed her deep sorrow, stating, This should never have happened outside a place of worship. This should never have happened outside a celebration of life. The church has expressed gratitude for the quick response from first responders and prayers for those affected by the tragedy.
Approximately half of Utah's 3.5 million residents are part of the LDS faith, and the church has been on heightened alert following a previous incident in September where four individuals were killed at a Michigan church.
