A peaceful protest turned violent on Saturday evening, June 14, 2025, when gunfire erupted during the large-scale “No Kings” march in downtown Salt Lake City. The protest, which attracted an estimated 10,000 participants, was part of a nationwide demonstration coinciding with the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary and President Donald Trump’s 79th birthday.
At approximately 7:56 p.m., shots were fired near 200 South and State Street, causing panic and chaos among protesters. One individual was critically injured and transported to a hospital with life-threatening gunshot wounds. A suspect, who also sustained gunshot injuries, was taken into custody and hospitalized under police supervision. Authorities have confirmed there is no continued threat to public safety.
The Salt Lake City Shooting: Police Response
Officers from the Salt Lake City Police Department (SLCPD), supported by the Utah Highway Patrol and the Salt Lake County Sheriff’s Office, responded swiftly to the scene. Witnesses on-site helped officers quickly identify and apprehend the suspected shooter near 200 East and 100 South.
In addition to the primary suspect, two other individuals were detained for questioning. Authorities have not released further details on their involvement. Investigators currently believe four individuals were directly connected to the incident, though the exact motive remains under investigation.
The SLCPD has urged anyone with relevant photo or video evidence of the shooting to submit it through their official evidence portal.
Reactions From City and State Officials
Utah Governor Spencer Cox called the incident “deeply troubling” and emphasized the importance of preserving the safety of public spaces during peaceful demonstrations. “This act of violence has no place in our public square,” Cox said, adding that law enforcement is working diligently to ensure accountability.
Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall also condemned the violence, stating, “The violence we’ve seen today in Salt Lake City is horrific—it’s just not who we are.” She praised the rapid response by local law enforcement and first responders, reaffirming the city’s commitment to protect those exercising their First Amendment rights.
Other Utah officials echoed the sentiment, with lawmakers highlighting the importance of maintaining peace during mass gatherings and ensuring the rights of citizens are respected without fear.
The “No Kings” Movement
The Salt Lake City protest was one of the largest among thousands of “No Kings” rallies held nationwide on June 14. The movement opposes what organizers describe as authoritarian tendencies in American governance and criticizes policies associated with Donald Trump and federal immigration enforcement agencies such as ICE.
While the majority of the demonstrations across the country were peaceful, isolated incidents of violence were reported in other cities, including Los Angeles, where protestors clashed with police.
Prior to the Salt Lake City shooting, the demonstration was orderly and without incident. Protesters moved in coordination with local authorities, and officers were present primarily to direct traffic and ensure public safety.
Continue Unrest At Protests
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances leading up to the shooting and have not ruled out additional arrests. Law enforcement officials have reiterated their commitment to transparency and public cooperation.
Public safety agencies have also indicated that they will review protocols for future protests to better ensure the safety of both participants and bystanders.
The shooting during the Salt Lake City protest is a stark reminder of the challenges facing law enforcement and civic leaders in maintaining safe spaces for free expression. As investigations continue and the community grapples with the aftermath, leaders at every level are calling for unity, accountability, and the reaffirmation of peaceful democratic engagement.
