Two people killed in shooting outside Mormon church in Salt Lake City

Two people have been killed and several injured in a shooting incident at the car park of a Mormon church in Salt Lake City, Utah. The shooting occurred on Wednesday during a funeral, where dozens of people were in attendance. According to police, no suspect is currently in custody and a manhunt has been launched.

Police confirm that they do not believe the shooting was random, but also state that it does not appear to be a targeted attack against the religion. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, where the funeral took place, reported signs of an altercation outside the church before shots were fired.

The scene was described as chaotic, with approximately 100 law enforcement vehicles present and helicopters flying overhead. Witnesses reported seeing someone on the ground being attended to by others who were crying and arguing.

Local authorities have expressed concern about the incident, stating that it should not have occurred in a place of worship. The church has cooperated with law enforcement, which is also receiving assistance from the FBI.

The shooting comes amid growing unrest in the US, following recent incidents such as a fatal shooting at an immigration facility in Minneapolis. According to data, firearms were used in approximately 82% of mass killings in the US in 2025. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has been on heightened alert since a similar incident occurred at a Michigan church last month, where four people were killed by a former Marine motivated by anti-religious beliefs.

Source: Al Jazeera