Peacekeeper Charged with Manslaughter in No Kings Protest Death
A recent incident during the No Kings protest in Salt Lake City has resulted in a significant legal development. Matt Scott Alder, a 43-year-old self-identified peacekeeper, has been charged with manslaughter. This charge stems from the death of Arthur “Afa” Folasa Ah Loo, a 39-year-old bystander.
Manslaughter Charge Overview
Salt Lake County District Attorney Sim Gill announced the charges against Alder, describing his actions as reckless. The incident occurred on June 14 when Alder allegedly fired into a crowd, resulting in Ah Loo’s death. This charge is classified as a second-degree felony.
Background of the Incident
During the protest attended by approximately 10,000 people, another individual, Arturo Roberto Gamboa, was initially arrested. Gamboa was carrying an AR-15 rifle, leading to alarm among some protest attendees. However, Gill decided not to pursue charges against Gamboa, citing insufficient evidence of wrongdoing.
- Event Date: June 14
- Victim: Arthur “Afa” Folasa Ah Loo, 39
- Accused: Matt Scott Alder, 43
- Location: Downtown Salt Lake City
- Attendance: Approximately 10,000 protesters
The Peacekeeper’s Actions
According to the prosecution’s findings, Alder believed Gamboa posed a significant threat. Witnesses reported Alder stating he thought Gamboa would use his weapon to harm people. In his effort to confront Gamboa, Alder fired three shots.
- Two shots hit Gamboa, causing injury.
- The third shot struck and killed Ah Loo.
Community Response and Legal Proceedings
The families of the victims have expressed frustration over the lack of accountability until now. Following the announcement of charges against Alder, Laura Ah Loo, the victim’s widow, held a press conference expressing her grief and calling for justice.
She stated, “These past five months have been long, painful, and deeply frustrating as we waited for answers.” Laura Ah Loo’s attorney, Jim McConkie, anticipates filing a wrongful death lawsuit against Alder after the holiday season.
Future Implications
The legal ramifications of this case could extend beyond Alder’s manslaughter charges. McConkie has pointed out the need for transparency regarding how the city vetted the permit for the protest. This situation raises questions about public safety measures at large gatherings in Salt Lake City.
As this case unfolds, it highlights concerns about the responsibilities of individuals claiming to serve as peacekeepers and the complexities of self-defense laws in Utah.
