Manhunt Underway After Fatal Shooting at LDS Church Parking Lot in Salt Lake City
At approximately 7:36 PM on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, gunfire erupted in the parking lot of an LDS meetinghouse located near 660 North Redwood Road in the Rose Park neighborhood. Authorities report that an altercation occurred outside while nearly 200 people were inside the chapel for a funeral service. Witnesses described hearing several loud gunshots that "shook the whole place," followed by chaotic scenes as attendees and nearby residents rushed to help those wounded in the parking lot.
Salt Lake City Police Chief Brian Redd confirmed that two adults were killed in the attack and at least six others were injured. Of the survivors, three were transported to local hospitals in critical condition. Police noted that some victims were taken to medical facilities via private vehicles before emergency responders arrived. All victims identified so far are adults, and while their names have not been released, the congregation is known to primarily serve the local Tongan community.
As of Thursday morning, January 8, no suspects are in custody, and a massive manhunt is underway. Police are searching for at least one suspect vehicle that was last seen traveling north on Redwood Road toward the Jordan River. While the specific description of the vehicle remains vague, investigators are reviewing license plate readers and surveillance footage from nearby businesses. Two individuals were briefly detained for questioning on Wednesday night but were not immediately identified as suspects.
Chief Redd stated that while the investigation is in its early stages, police do not believe this was a targeted attack against a religion, nor do they believe it was random. The department's gang unit is assisting with the case to determine if the altercation was related to local disputes. Mayor Erin Mendenhall expressed her heartbreak, stating that such violence should never happen outside a "celebration of life." The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints released a statement expressing deep concern and offering prayers for all those impacted by the tragedy.