Two Killed, Several Injured in Shooting Outside Salt Lake City Church

Fatal Shooting Reported Outside Church in Salt Lake City

On the night of January 7, 2025, a shooting occurred outside a building of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Salt Lake City, Utah, while a funeral service was being held inside the chapel.

Authorities confirmed that the incident took place in the parking lot of the church meetinghouse in Salt Lake City. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints stated that the shooting happened outside the building as a memorial service was underway and noted that it is cooperating with law enforcement. The Church also stated that it is grateful for the efforts of first responders.

Victims and Injuries

Salt Lake City police reported that two men were killed in the shooting. They identified the deceased as 38-year-old Sione Vatuvei and 46-year-old Vaea Tulikihihifo, both residents of Utah. Police further stated that at least six additional people were wounded during the incident.

According to police, at least three of the wounded victims were in critical condition following the shooting. Salt Lake City Police Chief Brian Redd told reporters that all of the victims in the incident were adults.

Police Statements and Investigation Status

Salt Lake City police said in a social media post that along with the two fatalities, several other victims sustained injuries. On Thursday, police stated that they did not believe the attack was targeted at the church or at people of the Mormon faith.

According to police, the gunfire followed a dispute between individuals who were attending the funeral service, although the shooting itself occurred outside the church building. As of Thursday, no suspects were in custody. Police reported that officers were present at the hospital where the injured victims were receiving treatment.

Police also said that several people at the hospital had been handcuffed and detained. However, they specified that those individuals had not been placed under arrest as of Thursday.

Official and Federal Response

The Associated Press reported that Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall commented on the incident, describing where it occurred and the type of gathering taking place at the time. In addition, the FBI stated in a social media post that it was aware of the shooting in Salt Lake City and was offering support to local law enforcement authorities.

The investigation into the shooting outside The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints meetinghouse in Salt Lake City remained active following the incident, with local and federal agencies coordinating in response to the deaths and multiple injuries reported on January 7, 2025.