Arthur Folasa Ah Loo, a celebrated fashion designer known for his vibrant representation of Pacific Islander culture and his contributions to the fashion industry, was tragically killed on Saturday during a “No Kings” protest in Salt Lake City, Utah.
The 39-year-old designer, who headed the fashion house Afa Ah Loo, was not the intended target of the gunfire that erupted at the demonstration. His untimely death has shocked the creative community and sparked a deeper conversation about safety and accountability during public protests.
Ah Loo, a native of Samoa and an influential figure within the Polynesian artistic circle, had become widely recognized for dressing celebrities like Auli’i Cravalho of “Moana” fame and cast members of “The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City.” His designs celebrated his cultural roots while elevating Pacific Islander artistry to mainstream fashion.
Despite immediate medical attention and lifesaving efforts, Arthur Folasa Ah Loo succumbed to his injuries at a local hospital, leaving behind a grieving family, a legacy of cultural creativity, and a community mourning the loss of one of its most cherished voices.
A Creative Legacy Rooted in Culture and Identity
Arthur Folasa Ah Loo’s journey into fashion was unorthodox and deeply personal. His creative spark was ignited in high school when a near-disastrous experience in a home economics class led a teacher to encourage him to try sewing instead of cooking. That shift marked the beginning of a lifelong passion for design. From a humble start to becoming a recognized name on platforms such as “Project Runway,” Ah Loo carved out a distinct space for himself in the fashion world.
While he was only briefly featured on season 17 of the competition show in 2019, the exposure amplified his visibility and connected his work to a broader audience. More importantly, it validated his mission to celebrate Pacific Islander heritage through fashion. Ah Loo’s style was marked by bold colors, rich textures, and symbolism that honored his Samoan roots. His garments were not merely clothes but statements—of identity, pride, and cultural preservation.
Ah Loo extended his influence beyond personal success. He co-founded Creative Pacific, a nonprofit dedicated to uplifting Pacific Islander artists and designers. Through this organization, he mentored emerging creatives, organized fashion showcases, and used his platform to spotlight the often-overlooked contributions of Polynesian people in global art and culture. The organization’s next fashion event was scheduled for late July, an event now steeped in poignancy and remembrance.
This tragedy highlights the dangers of incompetence in security roles.
— Xaldwin Sealand (@XaldwinSealand) June 16, 2025
Arturo Gamboa, 24, a security guard, fatally shot Arthur Folasa Ah Loo, 39, an unarmed bystander, with an AR-style rifle at the Salt Lake City 'No Kings' anti-Trump protest. pic.twitter.com/IZNHeiVk1o
In a 2019 interview with the Salt Lake City Tribune, Ah Loo spoke about his mission to bring cultural visibility to his designs and to inspire younger generations to pursue their passions unapologetically. He often infused his personal life into his work, dedicating collections to his children and crafting custom pieces for family members. One of his most heartfelt tributes was a collection inspired by his daughter Vera, showcasing his dual devotion to family and fashion.
The Tragic Incident at the “No Kings” Protest
The “No Kings” protest in Salt Lake City was meant to be a peaceful demonstration against centralized power and government overreach. However, the gathering turned deadly when gunfire erupted, causing chaos and ending in the loss of an innocent life. Authorities stated that Arthur Folasa Ah Loo was not the intended target when he was struck by a bullet that ultimately claimed his life.
According to the Salt Lake City Police Department, the sequence of events began when a man identified as Arturo Gamboa, 24, was seen separating from the crowd while manipulating an AR-15-style rifle. Members of the protest’s designated “peacekeeping” team noticed Gamboa and confronted him, demanding that he drop his weapon. Instead, Gamboa reportedly ran into the crowd holding his weapon in what police described as a “firing position.”
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In response, one of the peacekeepers discharged three rounds. One of those bullets struck Gamboa, while another tragically hit Arthur Folasa Ah Loo. Both men were rushed to the hospital, where Ah Loo was later pronounced dead. Gamboa was arrested and booked on a murder charge, though the situation has raised complex legal and ethical questions regarding the role of armed peacekeepers at protests and the responsibility for unintended casualties.
The community has been left grappling with grief and outrage. What was intended to be a demonstration of peaceful dissent ended in irreversible tragedy, underscoring the volatility that can arise when firearms are present, even in ostensibly peaceful settings. The details surrounding the shooting continue to be investigated, but for many, the focus remains on honoring the life lost and ensuring such an event does not repeat itself.
A Lasting Impact on Fashion, Family, and Culture
The ripple effect of Arthur Folasa Ah Loo’s death has been felt far and wide. In emotional social media posts, colleagues, friends, and admirers expressed their sorrow and paid tribute to his life and legacy. Auli’i Cravalho, the voice of Moana and a close collaborator, called the designer’s death an “immeasurable loss” and reflected on how his art helped shape one of the most important moments of her career—the world premiere of “Moana 2.” She spoke of his ability to create “thoughtful, elegant, and powerful portrayals of Pacific culture.”
David Derrick Jr., co-director of “Moana 2,” referred to Ah Loo as a “pillar in the community” and mourned the loss of a “brother” in a heartfelt message. His tribute captured what many who knew Arthur have echoed: that he was more than just a designer—he was a cultural ambassador, a community builder, and a source of inspiration.
Arthur Folasa Ah Loo’s artistry has long been regarded as a vehicle for storytelling, and through his work, he brought attention to the richness and diversity of Pacific Islander heritage. Whether dressing celebrities, mentoring up-and-coming designers, or crafting pieces for his own family, his work was a reflection of love—for his roots, his people, and his children.
His death has sparked a renewed appreciation for the importance of cultural preservation through art and has served as a call to action for the fashion industry to continue uplifting underrepresented voices. Creative Pacific, the nonprofit he helped create, is expected to carry forward his mission, with many in the community vowing to keep his legacy alive through future showcases and collaborative projects.
Arthur Folasa Ah Loo’s life was a vibrant tapestry of resilience, creativity, and service. His story reminds us of the power of cultural expression, the fragility of life, and the importance of community. As the Pacific Islander community and the broader fashion world continue to mourn his passing, they do so with a commitment to preserving his vision and advancing the causes he held dear.
His voice may have been silenced too soon, but his legacy will endure—stitched into every garment he created, every artist he inspired, and every heart he touched.