Safety volunteer arrested for fatal shooting of protester in Utah

A safety volunteer in Salt Lake City has been formally charged with manslaughter for the deadly shooting of a protester during a June "No Kings" demonstration. Matthew Scott Alder, 43, fired his weapon during the protest, aiming at a man he believed posed a threat, but inadvertently killed a bystander.

The incident occurred on June 14 when Alder saw Arturo Gamboa, 24, carrying a rifle. Believing Gamboa intended to carry out a mass shooting, Alder discharged three rounds. Gamboa was injured, while Arthur Afa Ah Loo, who was recording the protest, was fatally struck.

Salt Lake County District Attorney Sim Gill explained, The right to use lethal force exists, but it cannot be executed recklessly, emphasizing the legal basis for the manslaughter charge.

Authorities did not arrest Alder immediately after the incident. Gamboa was detained for a week but faced no charges. His attorney noted that Gamboas rifle was unloaded and pointed downward at the time. The district attorney affirmed that under Utah law, carrying firearms publicly is permitted, and no charges will be filed against Gamboa.

Although mistakenly identified as a threat, Gamboa had a history of attending public demonstrations with his AR-15 style rifle for self-protection and to safeguard fellow protesters, including at 2020 police violence protests.

Ah Loos widow, Laura Ah Loo, expressed that filing charges against Alder is an important step toward safer public events, stating she hopes it sets a precedent for future gatherings.

If convicted, Alder could face up to 15 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.

Analysis: Legal Implications of Manslaughter Charge Against Safety Volunteer

The recent manslaughter charge against Matthew Scott Alder, stemming from the deadly shooting of a protester during the June "No Kings" demonstration in Salt Lake City, raises critical questions about the application of lethal force in public protests. Alder, acting as a safety volunteer, mistakenly identified a protester, Arturo Gamboa, as a threat and discharged his weapon, resulting in the death of bystander Arthur "Afa" Ah Loo. While Alder believed he was acting in self-defense, the District Attorney's office underscored the importance of responsible use of force, especially in public settings.

Authorities have charged Alder with manslaughter, citing that the use of lethal force must not be reckless. This marks a significant legal precedent in how safety personnel and civilians are expected to act during high-stakes situations at public demonstrations. While Utah law permits the open carry of firearms, the incident has triggered wider debates about how safety protocols should be enforced during protests, where tensions can run high.

For the victims' family, particularly Laura Ah Loo, the charge represents a step toward accountability, and potentially a new standard for public safety at protests. However, the case also underscores the complex dynamics between protestors, public safety volunteers, and law enforcement when confronted with perceived threats.

If convicted, Alder could face significant prison time, serving as a reminder of the legal responsibilities that come with carrying and using firearms in public spaces. The outcome of this case may influence future protest policies and the protocols surrounding firearm use during demonstrations across the United States.

Sources:

• Safety volunteer charged in fatal shooting of ‘No Kings’ protester in Utah