Shooting Outside Salt Lake City LDS Church: 2 Dead, 6 Injured

Tragedy struck outside a church in Salt Lake City, leaving two individuals dead and six others injured. The shooting occurred during a memorial service at the Rose Park 5th Ward meetinghouse of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on Wednesday, January 7, 2026.

Shooting Overview

• Date: January 7, 2026
• Location: Rose Park 5th Ward meetinghouse, 660 N. Redwood Road, Salt Lake City
• Casualties: 2 dead, 6 injured (3 in critical condition)
• Incident Time: Initial call at 7:30 PM

The Salt Lake City Police Department reported that all those involved in the shooting were adults. Initial investigations reveal no suspects in custody as of 10 PM the same night. Police Chief Brian Redd stated that the shooter or shooters fled northbound on Redwood Road.

Community Impact

Witnesses reported a significant impact on the local community, particularly among the Pacific Islander and Latter-day Saint congregations attending the memorial service. Susi Feltch-Malohifo’ou, CEO of Pacific Island Knowledge 2 Action Resources, expressed her concern over the violence, emphasizing its effect on closely-knit community members.

Background on the Church Community

The Rose Park 5th Ward primarily serves Tongan congregants. According to census data, the Pacific Islander population in Utah constitutes about 1.6% of the state’s total population, with Tongans representing 39% of that group. In Salt Lake County alone, Pacific Islanders account for approximately 2.4% of the population.

Law Enforcement Response

Police are actively reviewing surveillance footage from nearby businesses to gather more information. They have requested the public to stay away from the area around the church as investigations continue. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints released a statement expressing their sympathies and commitment to cooperating with law enforcement authorities.

• Statement from the Church: “We extend prayers for all who have been impacted by this tragedy and express deep concern that any sacred space intended for worship should be subjected to violence of any kind.”

This incident highlights ongoing concerns about violence in communities, particularly in areas with a large Pacific Islander presence. As investigations proceed, authorities aim to uncover the motives behind this shooting, which has deeply affected the community.