A shooting at the “No Kings” demonstration in Salt Lake City left one protester critically injured and led to the arrest of three individuals, sparking renewed concern over political violence.
At a Glance
- One person sustained critical, life-threatening injuries after being shot in downtown Salt Lake City on June 14.
- Police took three people into custody, including the suspected shooter who also suffered a gunshot wound.
- An estimated 10,000 people were participating in the anti-Trump “No Kings” march at the time.
- Authorities emphasized there is no ongoing threat and are investigating whether the shooting was politically motivated.
- Utah’s governor and Salt Lake City’s mayor condemned the violence, praising law enforcement’s swift response.
What Happened
On the evening of June 14, around 7:56 p.m. local time, gunshots rang out near State Street and South State Street, just west of the Wallace F. Bennett Federal Building, as protestors marched in opposition to President Trump’s military parade in Washington, D.C., part of the nationwide “No Kings” demonstrations.
Responding officers found a man collapsed with critical injuries, and medical teams rushed him to the hospital under police guard. Police later confirmed the arrest of three individuals: one believed to be the shooter—who was also injured—and two others allegedly involved in the incident, all of whom were attendees of the rally, according to The Sun’s coverage.
Watch a report: Shocking Moment Man Shot in Street at Salt Lake City ’No Kings’ Demo.
Response & Investigation
Police Chief Brian Redd stated during a press briefing that officers acted swiftly to contain the situation and that there are no additional suspects at large. Authorities are now investigating whether the shooting was politically motivated or the result of a personal dispute among demonstrators.
Utah Governor Spencer Cox condemned the violence as “a deeply troubling act” and assured the public that law enforcement would seek full accountability. Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall echoed the sentiment, stressing that “this does not represent who we are,” as reported by People Magazine.
National Context of the “No Kings” Protests
The Salt Lake City march was one of over 2,000 coordinated events nationwide, drawing more than 5 million participants to oppose what organizers call “authoritarian drift” under President Trump. Coinciding with Trump’s 79th birthday and the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary parade, the day saw mostly peaceful demonstrations, though violence in a few locations—including a fatal shooting in Minneapolis—prompted law enforcement to heighten alerts.
What Comes Next
The Salt Lake City Police Department is urging witnesses or anyone with video footage to submit materials via their official portal. Investigators are now piecing together timelines, motives, and relationships among those involved to determine whether the attack was premeditated or spontaneous.
This violent incident underscores the volatile state of public discourse and the potential dangers of political mobilization in a hyperpolarized era.
