Salt Lake City, Utah — Charges of manslaughter have been filed against a safety volunteer accused of inadvertently shooting and killing a man during a protest last June. The incident occurred amid heightened tensions at a “No Kings” demonstration, where Matthew Alder allegedly fired three shots directed at another individual he mistakenly perceived as a potential mass shooter.
Salt Lake County District Attorney Sim Gill announced on Wednesday that one of Alder’s shots struck Arthur Folasa Ah Loo, a rally participant and known fashion designer. Gill emphasized the complexity of the situation, particularly with respect to Utah’s intricate gun laws. While Alder had the legal right to possess and use a firearm, Gill maintained that the recklessness of Alder’s third shot ultimately warranted the manslaughter charge.
The sequence of events unfolded when a man named Arturo Roberto Gamboa was spotted assembling a rifle near the crowd. Despite being initially arrested for murder, Gamboa will not face charges, as prosecutors concluded there was insufficient evidence to suggest he broke any laws, even if his actions were deemed alarming. Gamboa’s lawyer highlighted that his client carried the rifle unloaded and pointed toward the ground during the protest.
Alder, during his statement to investigators, indicated that he fired at Gamboa after the individual began moving toward the audience and failed to heed Alder’s warnings to stop. He described the situation as terrifying, saying Gamboa’s movements instilled fear in him.
The tragic incident profoundly impacted Ah Loo’s family. Known affectionately as Afa, he was a prominent advocate for Pacific Island artists and a former contestant on “Project Runway.” His widow, Laura Ah Loo, expressed heartache over her husband’s death, calling for accountability and expressing relief at the decision to charge Alder. “The grief of losing him has been profound and overwhelming,” she stated, while highlighting her husband’s roles as a father and champion for others.
The “No Kings” protests were part of a broader movement in 2025, as demonstrators across the country voiced opposition to the Trump administration, citing concerns over authoritarian practices. The protests drew a diverse crowd committed to advocating for democratic principles.
In Utah, the open-carry law allows individuals legally permitted to carry firearms to do so in public spaces. However, the shooting incident raised questions about the responsibilities accompanying the right to bear arms in crowded settings. Gill’s remarks pointed out that while Alder’s intentions may have stemmed from a desire to protect, his actions crossed a line into recklessness that ultimately led to Ah Loo’s untimely death.
As the toll of that tragic day continues to ripple through the community, legal experts and citizens alike are grappling with the implications of self-defense rights versus public safety in controversial scenarios. As the case develops, many are keenly awaiting further clarity on the balance between these competing interests.