Salt Lake City police are seeking public assistance in an ongoing investigation into a shooting that killed two residents outside a meetinghouse of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-saints in January 2026. The incident, which occurred during a celebration of life service, left two people dead and several others injured in a parking lot dispute.
Investigation into Fatal Shooting
The shooting occurred on the evening of Wednesday, Jan. 7, 2026, at a church building located at 660 N. Redwood Road in Salt Lake City. According to Salt Lake City Police Chief Brian Redd, the incident took place in the parking lot while a celebration of life was being held inside the building. Police were called to the scene shortly after 7:30 p.m.
Chief Redd confirmed on Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026, that the victims were identified as 38-year-old Sione Vatuvei and 46-year-old Vaea Tulikihihifo. While the investigation is ongoing, Redd stated that it is likely more than one suspect was involved, though no one had been taken into custody at the time of the briefing. Additionally, police noted that multiple vehicles left the scene immediately following the shooting.
Casualties and Suspect Details
The investigation has focused on potential gang activity following the incident. While Chief Redd stated that police could not definitively confirm the cause of the violence, he noted there was an indication that individuals at the scene were potentially involved in gang activity. Redd also characterized the crime scene as "very complicated" and noted that some individuals involved in the incident were "less than cooperative."
In addition to the two fatalities, six other adults were transported to a hospital to be treated for non-life-threatening injuries. While police did not confirm if the injured were innocent bystanders or participants in the dispute, Redd stated the conflict in the parking lot occurred between people who knew each other. The chief emphasized that the shooting was not believed to be a targeted attack against The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and that there is no active threat to the public.
Official Response and Context
Following the shooting, Utah Gov. Spencer Cox expressed relief that the incident did not pose an ongoing threat to the community. Speaking during a state-federal forestry event on Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026, Cox remarked that any loss of life is tragic and noted that his office has been following the updates provided by Chief Redd closely.
Gun violence remains a significant issue in the region. According to data from USAFacts, only 13% of gun-related deaths in Utah in 2024 were connected to homicide. Despite this, incidents involving multiple casualties are considered uncommon in Utah.
Public Assistance Requested
As the investigation continues, Salt Lake City police are asking anyone with information regarding the incident to contact the SLCPD non-emergency line at 801-799-3000.
