Arthur Folasa “Afa” Ah Loo Obituary, Death News: Fashion designer killed in Salt Lake ‘No Kings’ protest shooting identified

Arthur Folasa “Afa” Ah Loo Obituary, Death News – A well-known fashion designer who tragically died during the recent “No Kings” protest in Salt Lake City has been identified as Arthur Folasa “Afa” Ah Loo. Ah Loo, recognized both locally and internationally for his work in fashion, was shot during the protest and later died from his injuries.

According to Salt Lake City police, Ah Loo was part of a crowd of around 10,000 people attending the protest when an alleged peacekeeper opened fire on a suspect carrying an AR-15-style rifle. In the process, Ah Loo was accidentally struck by the gunfire. He was critically injured and taken to a hospital, where he passed away on Sunday.

Ah Loo was widely known for his appearance as a contestant on Bravo’s “Project Runway” and was the founder of his namesake fashion brand based in Salt Lake City. He also ran the Creative Pacific Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to Pacific Islander fashion and art. His work drew heavily from his Samoan heritage, and he had designed clothing for a number of high-profile individuals in Samoa, including Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mataafa. He had also dressed cast members of “The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City.”

His contributions to fashion were not limited to Utah. Ah Loo was scheduled to participate in the 2025 Pacific Fashion Summit during PNG Fashion Week as both a keynote designer and panelist. His upcoming collection was set to celebrate Pacific culture and heritage.

Aside from his professional achievements, Ah Loo was a devoted husband and father of two young children. A GoFundMe page created for his family highlights the personal loss felt by his loved ones and the broader community.

Utah Representative Doug Fiefia, a member of the local Polynesian community, expressed sorrow over Ah Loo’s death. In a statement, Fiefia called the news heartbreaking and praised Ah Loo’s positive influence. “He was a bright light in our Polynesian community and will be deeply missed,” Fiefia said, offering prayers for Ah Loo’s family and friends during this difficult time.

The investigation into the shooting is ongoing. Authorities have taken Arturo Gamboa, the man initially targeted in the shooting, into custody along with two individuals believed to be acting as peacekeepers. Gamboa has been charged with murder, and the District Attorney’s Office is currently reviewing whether additional charges should be filed against the others involved.

As the community mourns the loss of a prominent and inspiring figure, tributes continue to pour in for Ah Loo, whose life and work left a lasting impact on many both in Utah and across the Pacific region.