A peaceful protest against U.S. President Donald Trump’s policies turned violent Saturday night when a shooting left one person critically injured, prompting swift police action and multiple arrests.
The incident occurred around 8:00 p.m. local time during a large “No Kings” rally in Salt Lake City, which drew an estimated 10,000 participants. Demonstrators gathered as part of a nationwide protest campaign challenging Trump’s leadership and advocating for democratic values.
According to the Salt Lake City Police Department, the injured victim was rushed to the hospital with life-threatening injuries. A person of interest was taken into custody, with two other individuals also detained in connection with the shooting.
Police Chief Brian Redd said the rally had remained peaceful until the shooting occurred. He confirmed that the first suspect taken into custody had sustained a gunshot wound and was hospitalized. Authorities emphasized that there was no ongoing threat to public safety, though the motive behind the shooting remains unclear.
“It is too early in the investigation to determine whether the shooting was politically motivated,” Chief Redd noted during a press briefing.
Mayor Erin Mendenhall condemned the violence, saying it should not overshadow the purpose of the protest.
“This act of violence does not define Salt Lake City,” the mayor said. “Today’s demonstration was meant to be a powerful and peaceful expression, and we must not allow a single violent act to silence the voices of those exercising their First Amendment rights.”
Investigations are ongoing, with local authorities working to uncover further details surrounding the attack.
AFP
Advertisement