Tragedy Strikes Salt Lake City Funeral
A funeral service in Salt Lake City turned deadly on Wednesday night, January 7, 2026. Gunfire outside a Latter-day Saint church left two men dead and six others injured. One victim is being remembered for sharing his story of transformation and inspiring others.
How the Shooting Unfolded
The shooting happened around 7:30 p.m. outside the Rose Park 5th Ward chapel at 660 N. Redwood Road, where a funeral service was underway. The Riverside 2nd Ward, which also meets in the building, was not holding services that evening. Both congregations serve members of the Tongan community.
Initial reports suggested an active shooter, prompting a large police response. Authorities later clarified the attack was not random and had no religious motive. Salt Lake City Police Chief Brian Redd confirmed the public was not at risk.
By Thursday morning, five of the six injured remained hospitalized, with three in critical condition. One patient had been released, and others taken privately to hospitals have unknown conditions.
Victims Identified
Police named the deceased as Sione Vatuvei, 38, and Vaea Tulikihihifo, 46, also known as “Junior,” “Boney,” or “Tomato Head.”
Tulikihihifo was at the funeral with his wife, Nani, and their five-month-old baby. He stepped outside to retrieve formula from the minivan and never returned. Seconds later, at least ten shots rang out in the parking lot. His family stressed he was not involved in any altercation. Tulikihihifo leaves behind 11 children. His eldest, Darian, told FOX 13, “My dad was God-fearing, selfless, and the most caring man I ever met.”
Vatuvei, a father of a 3-year-old son, had built a social media following documenting his recovery journey. Once involved in gangs, he wrote poetry during prison and planned to publish a book. Friends described him as a mentor and community supporter.
What Sparked the Shooting
Police believe the violence began with a dispute between attendees that escalated into gunfire outside the church. Chief Redd described the scene as “complicated,” noting vehicles leaving the area may be linked to those involved. Several people were detained for questioning, but no arrests have been made. Authorities continue investigating the number of shooters and their whereabouts.
Surveillance Footage Reveals Chaos
Media coverage and online photos captured a massive law enforcement response. Police vehicles blocked the intersection of 700 North and Redwood Road, with cones and crime scene tape securing the area.
Footage from a nearby home recorded flashes and rapid gunfire, though it did not capture the shooters. Police are pursuing leads, including a vehicle seen traveling north on Redwood Road. The road remains closed, and residents are urged to avoid the area.
City Leaders Pledge Justice
Chief Redd and Mayor Erin Mendenhall reassured the public of their commitment to justice. “Our officers will not rest until we bring justice,” Redd said. Mendenhall added, “This tragedy impacts not just the victims and families, but the entire community.”
The FBI’s Salt Lake City office has also offered assistance to local authorities.
Church Responds
A spokesperson for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints expressed sorrow over the violence outside their meetinghouse. The Church thanked first responders and pledged full cooperation with police. “We pray for all affected and regret that any sacred space could be touched by violence,” the statement read.
Community in Mourning
As the investigation continues and authorities search for the suspect, Salt Lake City mourns the loss while seeking answers. The city stands united in grief, resilience, and hope for justice.
