Two individuals have lost their lives, and others have sustained injuries following a mass shooting outside a Mormon church in Salt Lake City, United States.
The incident occurred outside a funeral, triggering a manhunt as the perpetrator remains at large. Law enforcement responded to the shooting at a Latter Day Saints chapel on Redwood Road around 7:30 p.m. local time, with six individuals reported injured.
A significant police presence was observed outside the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, with numerous patrol cars lining the streets and officers securing the area.
The headquarters of the church is based in Salt Lake City, with half of Utah’s population being members of the faith. Similar churches can be found across the city and state.
The faith community has been on high alert following a recent tragic incident in a Michigan church where four individuals were killed by a former Marine. The FBI determined that the attacker was motivated by anti-religious sentiments against the church.
Authorities clarified that the shooting does not appear to be targeted towards a specific faith. Salt Lake City Police Chief Brian Redd stated that there is no evidence of religious animosity driving the attack.
Law enforcement officials believe the shooting was not random, although the suspect remains at large. Approximately 100 law enforcement vehicles were present at the scene, with helicopters providing aerial support.
Expressing dismay, Mayor Erin Mendenhall emphasized that violence should never occur near a place of worship or during a celebration of life.
Following the incident, the Church of Latter-day Saints issued a statement acknowledging the tragedy and confirming cooperation with law enforcement. The church extended prayers for all affected and condemned any violence in a sacred space meant for worship.
A spokesperson for Salt Lake City Police provided details on the shooting, highlighting the ongoing search for the suspects and urging the public to share any relevant information.
The shooting transpired in the parking lot of a meetinghouse of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, where a funeral service was reportedly underway.
Reports indicate that three of the injured victims are in critical condition, while the conditions of the other three remain unknown.
The shooting occurred near a Latter-day Saints Church at 650 North Redwood Road in Salt Lake City, Utah, sparking a swift and extensive law enforcement response.
FBI Salt Lake City also confirmed awareness of the incident and offered assistance to local authorities.