Judge Ordered Trial in Fatal Salt Lake City Shooting
Matthew Scott Alder faces manslaughter charges for a death that occurred during a 2025 protest in Salt Lake City.
Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Violence
A Salt Lake City judge has ordered Matthew Scott Alder to stand trial on a second-degree felony manslaughter charge following the death of Afa Ah Loo. Ah Loo died after being struck by gunfire during a protest on June 14, 2025.
Why it matters
The court determined there is sufficient evidence to suggest Alder acted recklessly when he fired three shots at another individual, resulting in the fatal injury of a bystander located 160 feet away. The ruling marks a significant step in the legal proceedings as the case moves forward to a full trial.
Judge Derek Williams ruled that sufficient evidence exists to proceed with the manslaughter trial against Matthew Scott Alder. Alder has entered a plea of not guilty to the felony charge.
The players
Matthew Scott Alder
The defendant is facing a second-degree felony charge for manslaughter.
Afa Ah Loo
The victim was fatally struck by gunfire during a public protest.
Derek Williams
The judge presiding over the Third District Court ordered the case to proceed.
Arturo Gamboa
He was identified as the individual the defendant allegedly targeted.
The details
Prosecutors argued that Alder acted recklessly by firing three shots toward Arturo Gamboa, ultimately striking Afa Ah Loo. Defense attorneys have indicated they intend to raise a self-defense claim as the legal process continues in the Third District Court.
Timeline
June 14, 2025: The 'No Kings' protest took place in Salt Lake City.
October 9, 2026: The defense presented evidence regarding a gate box impact.
October 13, 2026: A judge ordered that the case proceed to trial.
Legal Context
This case follows the legal aftermath of the 2025 'No Kings' protest where the shooting occurred. The proceedings reflect the jurisdictional handling of fatal incidents occurring within the chaotic environment of public demonstrations.
The ongoing court proceedings in the Third District Court highlight the legal scrutiny applied to the use of force during public events. Residents should be aware that the case remains active as defense attorneys prepare their self-defense arguments for the upcoming trial.
The takeaway
The court's decision to proceed to trial underscores the legal distinction between targeted actions and reckless behavior in volatile public settings. Attorneys for the defense are expected to center their upcoming arguments on claims of self-defense.
Further reading
For more information on legal developments in the area, visit the Salt Lake City Violence section.
