Fashion Icon Killed During Protest in Salt Lake City

A renowned fashion designer, celebrated for his work highlighting Pacific Island artists, was fatally shot during a demonstration in Salt Lake City. The incident occurred when a person brandishing a rifle was confronted by another, resulting in a stray bullet striking Arthur Folasa Ah Loo, 39, who later died at the hospital.

Remembering Arthur Folasa Ah Loo

The victim, Arthur Folasa Ah Loo, was a celebrated fashion designer and former “Project Runway” contestant. His work, which earned him both fame and respect, was devoted to showcasing the art of the Pacific Islands. He was deeply committed to his community, and to uplifting marginalized groups.

.Afa’s impact on the world through his gift of design and his beautiful heart will always live on. Sending my love, deepest condolences, sympathies and Aloha to his family, and all who felt his impact. 💔

— Auli’i Cravalho (@auliicravalho) June 9, 2024

“If Afa was going to go out any other way than natural causes, it would be standing up for marginalised and vulnerable communities and making sure that people had a voice,”

—Verona Mauga, State Representative

According to a 2024 study, the fashion industry, which Ah Loo was so integral to, has a global market size of $3.1 trillion. (Source: Statista).

Details of the Shooting Emerge

Police are still investigating the events that led to the shooting. Authorities have charged Arturo Gamboa, 24, with murder for allegedly creating the dangerous situation. Detectives are trying to determine why Gamboa pointed a rifle at the demonstrators. Law enforcement is also investigating the actions of self-identified “peacekeepers” present at the protest.

The demonstration in Salt Lake City was one of many held nationwide in response to a military parade in Washington. The event in Salt Lake City, however, did not have any record of authorized armed security.

The Designer’s Legacy

Ah Loo, known by many as Afa, was a self-taught designer. He leaves behind a wife and two children, and his legacy will live on through his designs and community involvement. A GoFundMe page set up for his family raised over $100,000 within 48 hours, demonstrating the profound impact he had.

Ah Loo‘s designs were known for weaving Pacific Island traditions with modern design, and he used flowers from Samoa and tapa cloth in his creations. He also designed a garment for actress Auli’i Cravalho for the premiere of Moana 2.