Salt Lake City Funeral Shooting Leaves Two Dead, Six Wounded

A heartbreaking night turned tragic in Salt Lake City on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, when gunfire erupted outside a church during a funeral service. Two people were killed, and six others were injured. The incident occurred outside The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at 660 North Redwood Road, which serves the Tongan-speaking Rose Park Fifth Ward community.

Community Shaken

Of the six injured, three remain in critical condition, according to local authorities. Some victims were rushed to nearby hospitals in private vehicles before police and emergency responders arrived.

Salt Lake City Police Chief Brian Redd addressed the public, assuring that while the suspect remains at large, there is no immediate threat to the broader community. He emphasized that the shooting appears neither random nor targeted at the church or its religious affiliation.

“We don’t believe this was a targeted attack against a religion or anything like that. We don’t believe, at this point, that this was random,” Redd said.

Chilling Footage Captures the Attack

Media coverage and online photos highlighted the intense law enforcement response. Police blocked the area at 700 North and Redwood Road with barricades, cones, and crime scene tape.

Surveillance footage from a nearby home captured flashes of gunfire and rapid shots, though the shooter was not visible. The video underscored the sudden and terrifying nature of the attack.

Manhunt Underway

Police are actively following all leads, including a vehicle of interest seen traveling north on Redwood Road. Authorities continue to search surrounding areas, particularly toward the Jordan River. Redwood Road remains closed near the church, and residents are urged to avoid the area.

City Leaders Pledge Justice

Chief Redd, joined by Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall, promised that authorities would work tirelessly to ensure justice and safety.

“Our officers will not rest until we bring justice. We will remain in the area, connect with the community, and do what we can to make people feel safe,” Redd said.

Mayor Mendenhall added:

“Our condolences grow as we recognize the impact on the victims, their families, the church community, and the broader West Side of Salt Lake City.”

The FBI’s Salt Lake City field office has confirmed it is assisting local law enforcement in the investigation.

Church Responds

A spokesperson for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints expressed deep sorrow over the violence outside the meetinghouse. The Church thanked first responders and pledged full cooperation with police. They also offered prayers for all those affected, emphasizing the tragedy of violence invading a sacred space.

“Until more information is available, all questions about this incident are being directed to the Salt Lake City Police Department,” the Church added.

United in Grief and Hope

As the investigation continues, Salt Lake City stands united in grief and resilience. Residents hope for justice and healing for the families and community members affected by this senseless violence.

Our heartfelt condolences go out to all those impacted. May the victims’ families find comfort and strength as they grieve.