Protester shot and killed at No Kings rally by peacekeeper

In the United States, during a No Kings protest in Salt Lake City on a Saturday evening, Arthur Folasa Ah Loo, a 39-year-old fashion designer known for his work in celebrating Pacific Island artists, was fatally shot. The incident occurred when a member of the protest's peacekeeping team discharged a firearm while attempting to subdue a man who was allegedly brandishing an assault-style rifle. Tragically, the bullet meant for this individual struck Ah Loo instead, as he was an innocent bystander at the rally. Eyewitness accounts revealed the chaotic moment after the gunfire, with many protesters scattering for safety. The protest aimed at advocating for the rights of marginalized communities ended in tragedy, raising questions about the presence of armed peacekeeping teams at such events. Video footage shared on social media captured the chaos as the gunshots sent several people fleeing for cover. Authorities revealed that while the intended target, Arturo Gamboa, sustained minor injuries, Ah Loo did not survive the shooting and was pronounced dead at the hospital later that night. Arthur Ah Loo's background as a self-taught designer was highlighted by community members who remembered him fondly for his unyielding commitment to enriching the lives of those around him. Ah Loo, affectionately known as Afa, was married with two children and had participated in Season 17 of the television show Project Runway. His career focused on integrating his Samoan heritage with contemporary fashion, and he co-founded Creative Pacific to uplift artists from the Pacific Islands. The Salt Lake City protest had engaged a diverse crowd advocating for social justice and equity, making the violent turn of events particularly shocking. Following the shooting, local leaders called for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident. The tragedy has sparked discussions about the role of 'peacekeepers,' the effects of armed presence at protests, and calls for accountability ensuring participants' safety during peaceful demonstrations.