Three Suspects Detained Following Shooting at ‘No Kings’ Protest in Utah

 

Three Suspects Detained Following Shooting at ‘No Kings’ Protest in Utah

After more than 10,000 demonstrators assembled in a nonviolent anti-authoritarian march at a crowded "No Kings" event in Salt Lake City on Saturday night, gunshots broke out close to the Liberty SKY condominiums. Three arrests were made on the spot by Salt Lake City police at 7:56 p.m. when commotion broke out, and one individual was seriously hurt.

 

One Critically Wounded, Immediate Response

When officers reported gunfire, they rushed quickly to flee those who were protesting. A single person was taken to the hospital in critical condition after suffering an almost fatal gunshot wound. Two additional people involved in the incident were arrested close to the area when a suspect was injured and sent to the hospital.

 

Witnesses Describe Moment of Panic

Witness Kris Pendleton, who was walking close to the shooter wearing a yellow vest, recounted the horrifying event: "We need to run," he remembered his wife telling him as gunfire broke out nearby.
Sarah Morton also observed the victim pass out and officers yell warnings like "Gunman!" as the crowd dispersed in terror.

 

Authorities Seek Clarity on Motive

Police Chief Brian Redd stressed that it is too soon to say whether the suspects knew one another or whether the shooting had political reasons. In along to expressing sadness at the violence, Utah President Spencer Cox praised the vast majority of people who marched peacefully.

 

Peaceful Protest Overshadowed by Violence

President Trump's 79th birthday and a significant military parade coincided with the gathering in Salt Lake City, which was part of a statewide series of nonviolent "No Kings" protests against alleged authoritarianism. The majority of protests went off without a hitch, but Friday's gunshot clouded the movement's main point.

 

Community Shock & Ongoing Investigation

"This act of violence does not define our city," said Mayor Erin Mendenhall in shock. To help with their investigation, police have asked the public for images, videos, or other kinds of evidence.

 

What Happens Next

Authorities continue to investigate the shooting's circumstances and are increasing patrols on the scene. Officials promise more updates as more data becomes available, and the suspects are now being held.