2 dead, 6 injured in US as shooting rocks funeral chapel in Salt Lake City

At least two people were killed and six others injured after a shooting broke out at a chapel in Salt Lake City, Utah, in the United States on January 7 evening, according to local police.

The incident took place at a Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints chapel during a funeral service, where mourners had gathered to pay their last respects. ABC News reported that at least one suspect fled the scene immediately after the shooting, prompting authorities to launch a manhunt. No arrests have been made so far.

Salt Lake City Police Chief Brian Redd said investigators do not believe the attack was motivated by religion, stressing that it was “not a random incident,” according to Reuters. Police are continuing to investigate the circumstances that led to the violence.

Mayor Erin Mendenhall expressed shock and grief over the shooting, calling it an unthinkable act of violence at a place of worship. “This should never have happened outside a place of worship,” she said. “This should never have happened outside a celebration of life.”

Authorities have not yet released details on the suspect or the condition of those injured as the investigation continues.