The family of Arthur “Afa” Ah Loo says they finally feel movement toward justice after prosecutors filed criminal charges in connection with his death during a June protest in downtown Salt Lake City. The update arrives nearly five months after Ah Loo was shot and killed during the “No Kings” demonstration on June 14—a case that has sparked community debate over public safety, armed participants at protests, and the responsibilities of event organizers.
On Wednesday, Salt Lake County District Attorney Sim Gill confirmed that 43-year-old Matthew Scott Alder has been charged with manslaughter. Prosecutors say Alder was working as a designated “peacekeeper” for the organizing group SLC 50501 when gunfire broke out along State Street. Gill emphasized the legal complexity of the case, noting that investigators had to analyze dozens of witness statements, videos, and ballistic findings before moving forward.
Full official details are available through the Salt Lake County District Attorney’s Office.
Family Says Charges Reflect “Moral and Just” Decision
Following the announcement, Ah Loo’s widow, Laura Ah Loo, released an emotional statement expressing both grief and gratitude.
“These past five months have been long, painful, and deeply frustrating as we waited for answers after Afa’s life was so carelessly taken,” she said. “While the wait for justice has been difficult, I understand the need for a careful and thorough investigation. I am especially grateful for the diligence and determination of the District Attorney’s office and its investigators, which allowed them to reach a decision that I feel is both moral and just.”
She added that the filing of charges marks “a significant first step” in their pursuit of justice and hopes it leads to safer environments during future public demonstrations.
What Investigators Say Happened That Day
According to the charging documents, Alder fired his weapon at Arturo Gamboa, a protest participant carrying an AR-15 rifle. Prosecutors say Gamboa, who was shot and injured, was acting within his legal rights to openly carry a firearm and has not been charged with any crime.
A stray bullet from Alder’s gun, investigators say, struck Ah Loo in the head, killing him at the scene.
A summons has been issued for Alder, who Gill notes has cooperated fully and is not considered a flight risk.
Attorney: Wrongful Death Lawsuit Coming Soon
The Ah Loo family is also preparing a wrongful death lawsuit against Alder. Their attorney, Jim McConkie, said they will work closely with prosecutors but are also exploring whether additional parties may bear responsibility.
“We’re looking at all of the parties because there are serious issues that have been raised,” McConkie said. “Was the city given false information during the permitting process? Was there proper coordination with police? And should so-called ‘peacekeepers’—who may or may not have proper training—be part of events like this?”
McConkie clarified that Gamboa will not be named in the civil action.
“It’s clear to us that he had the right—the legislature gave him the right—to carry the weapon, and he was not doing anything wrong,” he said.
More case background and legal updates can be found through the Utah State Courts.
