Man Involved in Fatal Shooting Incident at 'No Kings' Rally in Utah Released from Jail

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Police say Arturo Gamboa was carrying a rifle when safety volunteer fired on him and accidentally killed bystander

A man who was previously arrested on suspicion of murder for allegedly carrying a rifle at a 'No Kings' rally in Utah, where a safety volunteer accidentally killed a protester, has been released from custody.

Local district attorney Sim Gill's office announced on Friday that they were unable to determine charges against Arturo Gamboa following the shooting on June 14 that resulted in the death of demonstrator Arthur Folasa Ah Loo. However, the investigation into the incident is ongoing.

Salt Lake City police reported that Gamboa was in possession of an assault-style rifle at the rally and appeared to be advancing towards the crowd with the weapon raised. A safety volunteer at the event fired three shots, injuring Gamboa and fatally shooting Ah Loo nearby.

Although Gamboa did not discharge his rifle, his intentions with the weapon remain unclear. His father, Albert Gamboa, stated that his son was an innocent individual who was in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Utah's open-carry laws allow individuals who are legally permitted to own a firearm to carry it in public. The volunteer involved in the shooting has not been identified as authorities continue to investigate.

Judge James Blanch, in the release order, stipulated that Gamboa must reside with his father and is prohibited from having firearms. These conditions will be lifted after two months or if formal charges are brought against him.

Gamboa's attorney, Greg Skordas, has not yet responded to requests for comments.

Police initially reported that witnesses observed Gamboa raising the rifle when instructed to drop it, after which he began moving towards the crowd. He attempted to flee but was apprehended shortly after, accused of creating a hazardous situation that led to Ah Loo's death.

Authorities later acknowledged that the circumstances surrounding the shooting were still unclear, despite Gamboa being detained for three days without charges. They have requested any video footage related to the incident and are working to piece together the events.

The safety volunteer involved in the incident was described as a military veteran serving as a safety marshal to maintain order at the rally. Experts note that it is uncommon for such individuals to be armed, typically relying on communication and relationships with law enforcement and protesters to ensure safety.

The protest permit did not specify the presence of armed security, and organizers have not disclosed details about the volunteer's training or why he was armed. Attendees, including safety personnel, were advised not to bring weapons to the event.

The 'No Kings' rally, attended by approximately 18,000 people, was part of a series of protests across the country against Donald Trump's military parade in Washington, coinciding with the US army's 250th anniversary and the president's birthday.



Source: The Guardian
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