SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — The widow of a well-loved Utah fashion designer, Arthur Folasa Ah Loo, is demanding justice after her husband's tragic death during a June protest. Despite over four months without charges, Laura Ah Loo has taken a stand, urging that accountability must be established.
Arthur Ah Loo, known fondly as 'Afa', was shot on June 15 during a demonstration against perceived authoritarianism under the leadership of President Donald Trump. A volunteer peacekeeper fired three shots at a man reportedly waving a rifle at the demonstrators; one of those shots struck Ah Loo, ultimately leading to his death in the hospital.
In a press conference, Laura Ah Loo emphasized her husband's commitment to justice, stating, 'Afa always stood for those who needed justice the most… The world is watching.' In the wake of their loss, thousands rallied at the Utah State Capitol, demanding justice not just for Ah Loo but for broader societal reform.
While authorities arrested Arturo Gamboa, who was allegedly brandishing the rifle, no charges were filed against him. The identity of the volunteer peacekeeper who shot Ah Loo has also remained undisclosed, with the investigation into the incident ongoing. Salt Lake County District Attorney Sim Gill acknowledged the family's sorrow, stating they are working through complex legal considerations but ensuring that justice will be pursued.
Legal experts have weighed in, suggesting criminal charges against either party are unlikely due to the strong self-defense laws in Utah; however, civil action is expected as Laura Ah Loo's legal team prepares a wrongful death lawsuit. 'We know who fired the fatal shot that took Afa's life,' said attorney Richard Lambert, stressing the need for accountability and transparency in the legal process.
As the investigation continues, the case remains a focal point for calls for justice not just for Ah Loo but for broader community concerns as protests and public gatherings around the nation amplify the demand for transparency and justice.
Arthur Ah Loo, known fondly as 'Afa', was shot on June 15 during a demonstration against perceived authoritarianism under the leadership of President Donald Trump. A volunteer peacekeeper fired three shots at a man reportedly waving a rifle at the demonstrators; one of those shots struck Ah Loo, ultimately leading to his death in the hospital.
In a press conference, Laura Ah Loo emphasized her husband's commitment to justice, stating, 'Afa always stood for those who needed justice the most… The world is watching.' In the wake of their loss, thousands rallied at the Utah State Capitol, demanding justice not just for Ah Loo but for broader societal reform.
While authorities arrested Arturo Gamboa, who was allegedly brandishing the rifle, no charges were filed against him. The identity of the volunteer peacekeeper who shot Ah Loo has also remained undisclosed, with the investigation into the incident ongoing. Salt Lake County District Attorney Sim Gill acknowledged the family's sorrow, stating they are working through complex legal considerations but ensuring that justice will be pursued.
Legal experts have weighed in, suggesting criminal charges against either party are unlikely due to the strong self-defense laws in Utah; however, civil action is expected as Laura Ah Loo's legal team prepares a wrongful death lawsuit. 'We know who fired the fatal shot that took Afa's life,' said attorney Richard Lambert, stressing the need for accountability and transparency in the legal process.
As the investigation continues, the case remains a focal point for calls for justice not just for Ah Loo but for broader community concerns as protests and public gatherings around the nation amplify the demand for transparency and justice.
