A 39-year-old former “Project Runway” contestant and successful fashion designer was killed during a protest in Salt Lake City, Utah. Arthur Folasa Ah Loo, who was devoted to celebrating artists from the Pacific Islands, was shot and killed while participating in the “No Kings” protest against President Donald Trump’s military parade.
The incident occurred on Saturday when two men allegedly fired at a person brandishing a rifle at demonstrators. One of the bullets accidentally struck Ah Loo in the stomach, causing his death. Authorities have arrested one of the men, Arturo Gamboa, 24, who was part of a “peacekeeping” team for the protest, and are investigating whether he acted alone.
Ah Loo leaves behind a wife and two young children, with a GoFundMe page raising over $100,000 in just 48 hours. He was known for his self-taught fashion designs that blended traditional Pacific Island attire with modern silhouettes. Ah Loo had worked on several high-profile projects, including designing a garment for AuliÊ»i Cravalho, the star of the animated Disney movie “Moana 2”.
The incident highlights the risks faced by protesters during such events. Salt Lake City police said there was no record of armed security present at the protest. Ah Loo’s death has been met with widespread condolences from his friends and family, including state Rep. Verona Mauga, who described him as a devoted community advocate.
As part of his fashion brand, Create Pacific, Ah Loo worked to uplift artists from the Pacific Islands, allowing them to connect with their heritage. His passing has left a void in the community, but his legacy will live on through his work and upcoming fashion show.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/no-kings-day-ah-loo-utah-protests-shooting-f09f4813cd0b2f96ccaf5bc439dead77