SALT LAKE CITY — Officials in Salt Lake City are looking into a fatal event that took place on Wednesday evening outside a local church, where a memorial was being held. Police have confirmed that two adults died and six others sustained injuries during the occurrence, which transpired in a parking lot located behind the church.
The Salt Lake City Police Department reported that officers received an alert shortly after 7:30 p.m. concerning an emergency at a meetinghouse run by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. While many attended a remembrance service inside the church, the incident unfolded just outside.
Authorities indicated that a total of eight adults were impacted. Two individuals later succumbed to their injuries, with others being taken to hospitals for medical care. Some injured victims reached hospitals through private vehicles, which initially complicated the process for officials to verify the status of all those involved. At that time, several individuals were reported to be in critical condition, while others were still undergoing assessments.
Investigators suspect that the person responsible may have escaped the area before police arrived. Later that night, law enforcement was observed detaining at least one individual as part of a wider investigation. Police clarified that those detained were not immediately classified as suspects, and the inquiry continues.
Salt Lake City Police Chief Brian Redd confirmed that all victims were adults. He noted that officers are currently analyzing available surveillance footage from nearby areas and collecting testimony from witnesses in the vicinity. Authorities have not established any connection to organized crime and stated that it is premature to reach conclusions.
Police underscored that there is no evidence suggesting the event was driven by animosity towards any specific religion. Officials also mentioned they do not view the occurrence as random, although more information has yet to be disclosed. Investigators are diligently working to unravel the circumstances that led to this incident.
Community members rapidly came together in response to the event, providing support and solace to those impacted. The memorial service held inside the church honored an individual whose identity has not been disclosed, and many participants were understandably disturbed by the situation.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints issued a brief statement affirming their cooperation with law enforcement. Church officials expressed their concern regarding the incident and offered messages of support to all affected, highlighting the importance of ensuring safety and tranquility in locations designated for worship and reflection.
Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall also extended her condolences, expressing sympathy for the victims and their families. She characterized the incident as deeply alarming and stressed that such events should never happen, especially near a place of worship or during a gathering meant to celebrate someone's life.
Authorities continue to request patience as the investigation progresses. Updates will be shared as more verified information is released through official sources.
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