Arthur Folasa “Afa” Ah Loo, a beloved figure in both the fashion world and the Pacific Islander community, was fatally shot during the recent ‘No Kings’ protest in Salt Lake City, marking a devastating chapter in the city’s civic and cultural life. The incident, which unfolded amid a peaceful demonstration of approximately 10,000 participants, took a tragic turn when gunfire erupted, ultimately claiming the life of Ah Loo, a designer revered not only for his artistic achievements but for his advocacy and community leadership.

Authorities with the Salt Lake City Police Department have confirmed that Ah Loo, who was not involved in the initial confrontation, was struck by gunfire when a self-identified peacekeeper opened fire on Arturo Gamboa, a man allegedly seen carrying an AR-15-style rifle. According to preliminary reports, Ah Loo was standing within the crowd when the shooting occurred, and though he was quickly transported to a hospital, he succumbed to his injuries shortly thereafter. The exact details of how the gunfire unfolded remain under active investigation.

Ah Loo’s death sent shockwaves through multiple communities, from Utah’s fashion circles to international design platforms and the tight-knit Polynesian diaspora. As a contestant on Bravo’s “Project Runway” and the founder of his eponymous fashion label headquartered in Salt Lake City, Ah Loo had carved out a unique space for himself in the fashion world. His work drew inspiration from his Samoan roots, blending traditional Pacific Islander aesthetics with modern haute couture. He was not only a designer but also a cultural custodian, using his craft to uplift and preserve Polynesian identity through visual storytelling.

Beyond the runway, Ah Loo founded the Creative Pacific Foundation, a nonprofit that provided resources, mentorship, and exposure for Pacific Islander artists, particularly in fashion and design. Through this initiative, Ah Loo supported numerous emerging talents and helped bridge the cultural and generational divides within diaspora communities.

His influence extended into high-profile circles. Among his clients were figures of national prominence in Samoa, including Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mataafa, as well as American pop culture icons from “The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City.” These high-visibility collaborations demonstrated the global resonance of Ah Loo’s artistic voice and the growing interest in Pacific Islander fashion.

At the time of his death, Ah Loo was slated to be a keynote designer and panelist at the 2025 Pacific Fashion Summit in Papua New Guinea’s Fashion Week. His upcoming collection, which now remains tragically unfinished, was expected to focus on ancestral narratives and the resilience of Pacific cultures. This event was to be another milestone in a career already rich with impact. GoFundMe

Personal tributes have poured in, with many underscoring not just Ah Loo’s professional accomplishments, but also his character as a devoted family man. He is survived by his wife and two young children. A GoFundMe page has been launched to support his family through this unimaginable loss, and the response has underscored just how deeply his absence is felt. GoFundMe

Utah Representative Doug Fiefia, a leading voice in the Polynesian community, offered public condolences, praising Ah Loo as a “bright light” whose influence transcended design. “He was a bright light in our Polynesian community and will be deeply missed,” said Fiefia, adding that his thoughts and prayers were with Ah Loo’s loved ones. GoFundMe

Meanwhile, legal proceedings have begun in the wake of the shooting. Arturo Gamboa, the man allegedly targeted by the peacekeepers, has been taken into custody and charged with murder. Two others believed to have acted as peacekeepers are also under scrutiny as the Salt Lake County District Attorney’s Office continues to evaluate whether further charges are warranted. Authorities have not released the identities of the two peacekeepers, and it remains unclear whether their actions were coordinated or independently undertaken. GoFundMe

This tragic event has reignited discussions around protest safety, civilian enforcement roles, and gun presence at large public gatherings. With many details still emerging, the city braces for the legal and societal implications to follow. For now, the focus remains on honoring the life and legacy of Arthur Folasa “Afa” Ah Loo—a designer, advocate, father, and cultural icon whose work and spirit touched thousands. GoFundMe