SALT LAKE CITY — A funeral gathering turned into a scene of chaos and tragedy Wednesday night after a mass shooting erupted in the parking lot of a Salt Lake City church, leaving two men dead and six others injured. Police said at least three of the injured victims are in critical condition following the shooting, which occurred while mourners were inside attending services.

Authorities identified the two men who lost their lives as Sione Vatuvei, 38, and Vaea Tulikihihifo, 46. Both men were pronounced dead as a result of gunshot wounds. The shooting happened just after 7:30 p.m. at a meetinghouse of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, located at 660 North Redwood Road.

Witnesses told police that the funeral was well attended, with an estimated 200 people present. The meetinghouse serves two Tongan Latter-day Saint wards, and many community members had gathered to pay their respects. What began as a solemn evening of mourning quickly shifted into panic as gunfire rang out in the parking lot.

Salt Lake City police said an argument outside the church escalated into violence, ultimately leading to the shooting. Investigators have not confirmed whether the shooter or shooters were attending the funeral or what specifically sparked the confrontation. As of Thursday morning, no arrests had been announced, and police continue to search for those responsible.

The shooting prompted a massive law enforcement response. Officers from Salt Lake City Police, along with several agencies from across the Salt Lake Valley, rushed to the scene. Emergency crews worked quickly to treat the wounded and transport victims to nearby hospitals, while officers secured the area and gathered witness statements.

Police held a news conference Thursday morning to provide an update, calling the incident heartbreaking and deeply troubling. Investigators remain on scene reviewing surveillance footage and interviewing witnesses as the investigation continues. Authorities are urging anyone who was present at the church or has information related to the shooting to contact police. The community remains shaken as loved ones grieve and officials work to bring answers and accountability in the wake of the deadly violence.