Arthur Folasa Ah Loo, a 39-year-old Samoan fashion designer known professionally as Afa Ah Loo, was fatally shot during a ‘No Kings’ protest in Salt Lake City on June 14, 2025. Police reports state that Ah Loo was an innocent bystander caught in the crossfire when a self-appointed “peacekeeper” opened fire on a man allegedly wielding an AR-15-style rifle in the crowd. The incident, which occurred at approximately 7:56 p.m., has left the fashion world and the Pacific Islander community mourning the loss of a beloved figure.
According to the Salt Lake City Police, the tragedy unfolded when two members of the protest’s “peacekeeping team” confronted 24-year-old Arturo Gamboa, who was seen moving away from the crowd while handling an AR-15-style rifle. When ordered to drop the weapon, Gamboa fled into the crowd, holding the gun in a firing position. One of the peacekeepers fired three shots, striking Gamboa with one bullet and Ah Loo with another. Despite immediate medical attention and transport to a hospital, Ah Loo succumbed to his injuries.
Gamboa survived and was arrested, facing murder charges for creating the chaotic and dangerous situation that led to Ah Loo’s death. Authorities have emphasized that Ah Loo was not the intended target but an unfortunate victim of the escalating violence.
The news of Ah Loo’s death reverberated widely, prompting an emotional tribute from Auliʻi Cravalho, the voice actress of Disney’s Moana. In a social media post, Cravalho wrote,
“There are no words to hold the grief of losing” Ah Loo, lauding his designs as “thoughtful, elegant, and powerful portrayals of Pacific culture.”
She revealed a personal connection, noting that she wore his custom shell top and black high-waisted pants for the Moana 2 world premiere in November 2024—an event she described as the most significant of her career.
“Your artistry will never be forgotten; and neither will your peaceful protest,” Cravalho concluded. “My deepest condolences, sympathies, and Aloha to his family, and all who felt his impact.”
Born in Samoa between 1985 and 1986, Arthur Folasa Ah Loo grew up in Satupaitea, Falelima, Lotopa, and Neiafu villages. His fashion journey began serendipitously in a high school home economics class at World College of Western Samoa. As he once told the Salt Lake City Tribune, an ill-fated attempt at baking brownies nearly set the kitchen ablaze, leading his teacher to redirect him to sewing. This pivot launched an extraordinary career.
A self-taught designer, Ah Loo founded his eponymous brand in 2013, championing inclusivity by creating clothing for all body types. His career was marked by notable achievements:
- 2015: Showcased collections at Fiji Fashion Week and LA Fashion Week.
- 2015: Designed outfits for Miss World Samoa Latafale Auva’a for the Miss World pageant.
- 2018: Represented Samoa at the Commonwealth Fashion Exchange at Buckingham Palace, presenting a gown blending linen with traditional Samoan Afa (coconut husk rope).
- 2019: Competed on Season 17 of Project Runway, placing 13th, and later returned for Project Runway Redemption.
- 2024: Crafted custom designs for Auliʻi Cravalho for the Moana 2 premiere.
His work, known for vibrant colors and bold Pacific-inspired patterns, earned him recognition on international stages and among celebrities, including The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City cast members.
In 2023, he co-founded Utah Pacific Fashion, Utah’s first fashion show spotlighting Oceania designers. The following year, he established Creative Pacific with Benjamin Powell, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting Pacific Islander artists and entrepreneurs through mentorship, scholarships, and cultural exchange.
Utah Representative Verona Mauga, a personal friend, praised Ah Loo’s commitment to equity and human rights.
“He was surrounded by his community, advocating for the values that truly enhance our society.”
At his death, Ah Loo was gearing up to headline the Pacific Fashion Summit 2025 and debut a new collection at PNG Fashion Week’s Genesis Showcase.
Ah Loo leaves behind his wife, Laura, and their children, Vera and Eti. A GoFundMe campaign for his family has raised over $400,000, a testament to his widespread influence.
The ‘No Kings’ protests swept across the United States on June 14, 2025, dubbed ‘No Kings Day,’ coinciding with the U.S. Army’s 250th Anniversary Parade and Donald Trump’s 79th birthday. Organized in opposition to Trump’s second-term policies amid fears of democratic erosion, the movement saw over five million participants in more than 2,100 U.S. cities and towns, with additional demonstrations in 20 countries.
In Salt Lake City, approximately 10,000 people joined a permitted march from Pioneer Park through downtown. The event remained peaceful until the shooting disrupted its message. Mayor Erin Mendenhall underscored the protest’s intent, stating,
“The purpose of today’s demonstration was a powerful and peaceful expression until this event, and that cannot be overshadowed or silenced by a single act meant to harm.”
Arthur Folasa “Afa” Ah Loo’s death is a profound loss to his family, the Pacific Islander community, and the global fashion industry. His designs and nonprofit initiatives will endure as monuments to his creativity and generosity. As Auliʻi Cravalho affirmed, his artistry and peaceful spirit will continue, ensuring his influence remains indelible.
