One year after Arthur "Afa" Ah Loo was fatally shot while recording a protest in downtown Salt Lake City, his family continues to pursue legal action against those they hold responsible. A wrongful death lawsuit, filed in the Third Judicial District Court of Utah (Civil Case No. 26-0901794), names event organizers, Salt Lake City law enforcement, and the city as defendants.
The shooting occurred on June 14, 2025, during a "No Kings" rally organized by the Utah 50501 chapter. The protest encouraged volunteers, referred to as "peacekeepers," to be armed. According to the complaint, one of these armed peacekeepers fired three shots at an individual who was legally open-carrying a rifle, mistakenly believing the person posed a threat. One of the bullets struck Ah Loo in the head, killing him.
"This tragedy was foreseeable and preventable," said Jim McConkie of Parker & McConkie, the law firm representing the Ah Loo family. "The organizers created the conditions for it and must be held accountable."
Ah Loo's death was recently highlighted in The New York Times, which detailed how rogue decision-making by armed individuals can lead to tragic consequences. The lawsuit seeks damages for economic losses suffered by Laura Ah Loo and the couple's children, medical and funeral expenses, and general damages for loss of affection and companionship.
The case underscores broader concerns about the role of armed volunteers at public demonstrations and the responsibilities of event organizers and law enforcement to ensure safety. Additional case information, including photos, video, and pleadings, is available at Parker & McConkie's website.
The Ah Loo family's pursuit of justice continues as they seek accountability for a death they argue could have been avoided.
