One year after Arthur "Afa" Ah Loo was shot and killed while attending a "No Kings" protest in downtown Salt Lake City, his family continues to seek justice through a wrongful death lawsuit filed in the Third Judicial District Court of Utah (Civil Case No. 26-0901794). The suit names event organizers, Salt Lake City law enforcement, and the city as defendants, alleging negligence and failure to prevent the tragedy.
Ah Loo, a father, was recording the protest on June 14, 2025, when an armed "peacekeeper"—volunteers the Utah 50501 chapter encouraged to carry weapons—opened fire on an individual legally open-carrying a rifle. The shooter fired three shots, one of which struck Ah Loo in the head, killing him. The incident was later highlighted in The New York Times, which detailed how rogue decision-making by armed individuals can lead to fatal consequences.
"This tragedy was foreseeable and preventable," said Jim McConkie of Parker & McConkie, the firm representing the Ah Loo family. "The organizers created the conditions for it and must be held accountable." The complaint seeks damages for economic losses to Ah Loo's wife, Laura, and their children, as well as medical and funeral expenses, and compensation for lost affection and companionship.
The case underscores broader concerns about armed volunteers at protests and the responsibility of event organizers and law enforcement to ensure safety. The Ah Loo family hopes the lawsuit will bring accountability and prevent similar incidents. Additional case information, including photos and legal filings, is available at Parker & McConkie's blog.
