Two Men Killed in Utah Church Shooting; Tributes Pour In

Two men were tragically killed in a shooting outside a church in Salt Lake City, Utah, last week. The victims, Sione Vatuvei, aged 38, and Vaea Tulikihihifo Jr., aged 46, were shot in the parking lot of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on Redwood Road. The incident occurred during a funeral service on January 10, 2024, and left six others injured.

The shooting reportedly erupted following a confrontation in the church’s foyer. Witnesses described chaos as the shooter opened fire indiscriminately. Christina Vatuvei, Sione’s widow, expressed her disbelief at the loss of her husband, saying, “The individual just took out his gun and started shooting everywhere. I don’t think there was an intended target; it was anyone, and unfortunately, my husband got caught in the crossfire. I heard that he was trying to stop it.”

Vatuvei was known for his efforts to turn his life around after previous struggles, including incarceration and gang involvement. Family and community members have come together to support the victims’ families through fundraising efforts, including GoFundMe pages established for both men.

Vaea Tulikihihifo’s widow, Nani Tulikihihifo, shared that they were blessed with 11 children, the youngest being just five months old. Their eldest son, Darian Junior Fosho Tulikihihifo, spoke about the family’s faith during this challenging time. “We’ve been given a family to take care of each other in times like this,” he said. “Our Pops never sought recognition for anything he’s ever done good. He was definitely someone I look up to, because he was the biggest caretaker for a lot of people.”

Community tributes highlight the significant impact both men had on the lives of those around them. David Tulikihihifo, who organized the GoFundMe for Vaea, shared a heartfelt message online, describing him as “the life of the party wherever he went.” He noted Vaea’s joyful spirit and ability to bring laughter to any gathering.

A Celebration of Life Service for Vaea Tulikihihifo is scheduled for January 20, 2024, in Utah, as the community mourns their loss. The police are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting, seeking to understand the events that led to this tragic incident.

As tributes and support pour in for the families affected, the community reflects on the lives of two men who were cherished and respected, leaving behind a legacy of love and care within their families and the wider Pacific community.