WEST VALLEY CITY, UT — June 16, 2025
A tragic shooting at a local carnival in suburban Salt Lake City has left three people dead, including an eight-month-old baby and a 41-year-old woman, after gunfire erupted during an altercation between two groups at the Westfest celebration in Centennial Park on Sunday night.
According to the West Valley City Police Department, officers were responding to an escalating dispute between two groups around 9 p.m., when a 16-year-old male from one of the groups pulled a firearm and opened fire on the opposing group. In the chaos, police returned fire, though they confirmed the teen suspect was not hit. He was later taken into custody without further incident.
Victims Identified and Community Grieves
Among the three killed:
- An eight-month-old infant, caught in the crossfire
- A 41-year-old female bystander, who police say was not involved in the altercation
- An 18-year-old male, believed to have been part of one of the groups involved
Additionally, two teenagers—a male and a female—were injured, each sustaining gunshot wounds to the arm. Authorities have not confirmed whether they were bystanders or participants in the initial confrontation.
West Valley City Police Chief Colleen Jacobs addressed the public Monday morning, expressing deep sorrow:
“This is a horrific tragedy, and our community is devastated. An infant’s life was taken in an instant. A woman simply enjoying a local celebration is now gone. This is not who we are.”
Police Under Fire, But Not Injured
Although officers discharged their weapons during the incident, no one was struck by police fire, and no officers were injured. The shooting occurred at Westfest, an annual summer event that attracts hundreds of families for food, rides, and music. The park was full of attendees, many of whom fled in panic as gunfire broke out.
Witnesses described chaotic scenes as parents scrambled to find their children.
“People were screaming, running. I just grabbed my kids and ducked behind the funnel cake stand,” said one parent who asked not to be named.
Broader Context: Gun Violence in America
This event marks one of 156 mass shootings in the United States so far in 2025, according to data from the Gun Violence Archive, which defines mass shootings as incidents where four or more people are shot or killed, excluding the shooter.
Utah, often seen as relatively insulated from such violence, has not been immune. Last year, West Valley City reported a significant uptick in youth-involved gun incidents.
“We’re seeing more juveniles with firearms,” said Sgt. Marcus Turner. “These guns are getting into the hands of teens through illegal channels and social media marketplaces.”
Legal and Community Response
The 16-year-old suspect is currently in custody, and authorities say charges will likely include multiple counts of homicide, aggravated assault, and unlawful possession of a firearm. Under Utah law, juveniles involved in violent felonies can be tried as adults under certain conditions.
Mayor Karen Lang issued a statement early Monday, vowing to support victims’ families and strengthen youth outreach efforts:
“We are heartbroken. And we are angry. We must come together—not just in mourning—but in action.”
What’s Next?
The police department has called on witnesses to come forward with video or testimony. Grief counselors have been made available at local schools and community centers.
Westfest organizers say all remaining carnival activities are canceled as the city mourns.
