Just days earlier, a mass shooting took place outside a church in Salt Lake City, Utah. Tragically, two innocent victims were killed by a gunman while attending a funeral service for a third victim. What should have been a day of celebration instead became a day of mourning. The local community remains stunned as the events unfolded.
The shooting occurred outside a church affiliated with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. In our case, this organization’s headquarters in Salt Lake City provided a great setting. Dozens of mourners filled the cavernous interior for a late funeral, lending the space a fitting mournful atmosphere. Suddenly, all of that hope was cut down by a wave of violence. According to media reports, at least eight adults were injured. Tragically, two of them died from their injuries, and three others remain in critical condition.
Salt Lake City Police Chief Brian Redd addressed the media following the tragic event, stating, “We don’t believe this was a targeted attack against a religion or anything like that.” His statements echoed the ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding Harris’ shooting. The police department responded by sending nearly 100 law enforcement vehicles to the scene. At the same time, helicopters orbited above, filming the reality of the devastation.
Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall took to social media to voice her anger. “During a celebration of life, that should never happen in a house of worship,” she continued. “This should never have happened outside a place of worship. This should never have happened outside a celebration of life,” she remarked.
Leaders in the devastated church community said they were still coming to grips with the violent act. Sam Penrod, a church spokesman, said prayers were being offered for all those affected. He lamented in very poignant terms, very deep terms, the violence that has profaned what normally would be considered a holy space.
As Christians, we extend our deepest thoughts and prayers to all those impacted by this horrific tragedy. These past acts of violence on any sacred space should trouble us profoundly, including the physical manifestations of worship that form our diverse communities. Penrod stated.
In light of recent violent incidents, including one in Michigan last month, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints had been on heightened alert. The organization fully intends to continue working with law enforcement at every facet, as ongoing investigations continue into the violence brought upon unfortunate bystanders.
The entire community is grieving for every life cut short. Now residents are left to grapple with the harsh reality of that violence occurring literally in their own backyards. At this time, authorities are still unclear on the motive behind the shooting and they are actively working to find out.