Police attempted to break up a fight between two groups of people during WestFest in West Valley, Utah, on June 15, 2025. During the scuffle, a 16-year-old allegedly pulled a gun and opened fire. An officer returned the gunfire but did not kill the juvenile suspect. During the shoot-out, three people died and two others were injured. Among the victims were a 41-year-old Fnu Reena, 18-year-old Hassan Lugundi (believed to be the target), and 8-month-old Anderson Garcia Cabrera Jr.
Anderson’s family shared their heartbreaking story on GoFundMe. Anderson, a twin, died in the crossfire during “what was meant to be a joyful Father’s Day celebration.” The family called his death a senseless act of gun violence. Now, his parents hope to return their son to Guatemala for burial with family.
“We are devastated and struggling to process this unimaginable loss,” the fundraiser reads. “We are reaching out to our community for support during this incredibly difficult time. Any contribution, no matter how small, will help us cover the costs of transporting our baby home and giving him the proper burial he deserves. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your compassion, prayers, and support.”
The family has raised more than $68,000 of a $100,000 goal thus far.
“We are so, so sorry. Your baby and your family deserve so much better than this,” one donor shared.
The tragedy rocked the small Utah community. Multiple witnesses shared firsthand accounts with Fox 13.
“I feel like people should stop bringing guns to events like that because they’re supposed to be for families and kids,” Ivy Kanga told the news outlet.
No one expected the evening to end the way it did.
“I don’t even know how to explain this night,” another witness shared with Fox 13. “I am traumatized. I don’t think I would ever go to a fair, especially if they’re not checking the people that walk in.”
West Valley City Mayor Karen Lang and the West Valley City Council released the following statement on the city’s website:
“We are heartbroken.
What should have been a joyful night of community celebration ended in unimaginable tragedy. We mourn the lives lost and stand in deep sorrow with the families whose worlds have been forever changed.
West Valley City is a community rooted in resilience, compassion, and unity. In the face of heartbreak, we must lean on one another, care for one another, and recommit ourselves to building a safer, stronger community.
We extend our deepest gratitude to the officers, first responders, and medical teams who acted swiftly, as well as the detectives working tirelessly to uncover the full truth.
We grieve with you and we ask that all of us continue to stand together and support one another.”
Authorities have released little information because of the suspect’s age. He is in custody, per Fox 13, but whether he’ll face charges as an adult or minor remains to be seen.
