First arrest made in US church shooting of two Pacific fathers - police

Salt Lake City police have made the first arrest in the investigation of a shooting outside a Latter-day Saints meetinghouse that left two people dead and six injured.

The victims, both Pacific men, were killed on 7 January during a memorial service at the Rose Park 5th Ward.

Authorities arrested a man on suspicion of felony obstruction of justice after confronting him with evidence from the investigation.

Police say he had been at the church on the night of the shooting, closely matched witness descriptions of a shooter, and attempted to conceal a loaded firearm when arrested. Prosecutors have yet to file formal charges.

The two men killed were 38-year-old Sione Vatuvei and 46-year-old Vaea Tulikihihifo. Both were well-known members of Utah’s Pacific community.

Vatuvei had been involved in local men’s support groups, while Tulikihihifo was a devoted father of 12 and a respected community figure.

Vaea Tulikihihifo, back fourth from left, was killed in the Salt Lake City church shooting, pictured here with his family. Loved ones described him as a devoted father and respected member of the Pacific community. Photo/Facebook/KUTV 2News

Funerals for both men have drawn attention from Pacific communities across Utah, Pacific, New Zealand, and Australia.

The Pacific advocacy group PIK2AR described the deaths as “devastating” and called for stronger support networks to prevent future violence.

“These men were valued members of our community,” Susi Feltch-Malohifo’ou, development and engagement officer at PIK2AR, said.

Sione Vatuvei, right, was also killed in the attack, pictured here with his family. Community leaders remembered him for his dedication to mentoring young Pacific men. Photo/Facebook/KUTV 2News

Police say the arrested man had previously claimed he was not involved, but evidence recovered from his phone and personal effects, including a video showing him handling a firearm similar to one recovered at the scene, prompted the arrest.

Investigators are still seeking additional suspects.

Chief Brian Redd said there were indications of gang activity at the scene, but the exact motive remains unclear.

Witness cooperation has been limited, which police say has hindered the investigation.

Community leaders have called for calm and unity, urging families to support police efforts while promoting conflict resolution within youth and gang intervention programs.

Social media from Pacific communities in Utah and Oceania has reflected grief, solidarity, and a desire for justice.

As the investigation continues, families and friends mourn the loss of two men who were pillars of their community, a grief felt across the Pacific as well as in Salt Lake City.