CRIME, POLICE + COURTS

2 men fatally shot near downtown SLC hotel, prompting homicide investigation

Apr 15, 2025, 6:49 AM | Updated: 9:50 am

SALT LAKE CITY — An overnight shooting in downtown Salt Lake City left two men dead Tuesday, according to the Salt Lake City Police Department. By morning, a person whom authorities believe was involved in the shooting was in custody.

At approximately 12:30 a.m. on Tuesday, a 911 call was received from someone near the Comfort Inn at 171 W. 500 South. According to Detective Michael Ruff with SLCPD, the caller hung up. It wasn’t until officers were en route to the hotel that they learned there were possible shots that had been fired.

Police arrived to find the two men suffering from gunshot wounds and in critical condition inside the hotel, Ruff said. Responding officers attempted to save their lives, requesting paramedics.

Despite their efforts, both men died at the scene.

A responding officer sits inside a Comfort Inn — the scene where two men were shot and killed on Tuesday, April 15, 2025. (Derek Petersen/KSL TV)

It was not specified what part of the hotel the men were found in — whether in a hallway or a room — but Ruff said they were found in the same area.

“Although detectives are just beginning their preliminary investigation, which includes gathering details, speaking with witnesses, and reviewing any digital evidence, officers do not believe there is a threat to our community,” SLCPD said, in a press release.

Authorities did not provide any immediate information about the person who was detained.

A homicide squad with the SLCPD was working with the medical examiner’s office to confirm the identities of the men and notify their next-of-kin.

Police said the shooting resulted in the first and second homicides of 2025 in Salt Lake City.


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2 men fatally shot near downtown SLC hotel, prompting homicide investigation