WEST VALLEY CITY, UT — Community Grieves After Triple Tragedy at WestFest Shooting

WEST VALLEY CITY, UT — Community Grieves After Triple Tragedy at WestFest Shooting

WEST VALLEY CITY, UT — A festive summer night turned into a scene of chaos, heartbreak, and unimaginable loss on Saturday, June 15, 2025, at WestFest in West Valley City, where three lives were tragically lost in a senseless act of violence. Police have now identified the victims as 18-year-old Hassan Lugundi, 41-year-old Fnu Reena, and an 8-month-old baby boy, whose name has not been released out of respect for his grieving family.

Authorities say the shooting occurred just after 9 p.m. near the main festival grounds, where families, friends, and community members had gathered to enjoy live music, food vendors, carnival rides, and community fellowship. What should have been a joyful celebration ended in horror when gunfire erupted, sending crowds scattering in fear and confusion.

According to West Valley City Police, Hassan Lugundi was the intended target of the shooting. The young man was shot multiple times and was pronounced dead at the scene despite the rapid response of first responders. Lugundi was a recent high school graduate who had aspirations to attend college in the fall. Friends and loved ones describe him as “ambitious, energetic, and full of life.”

“He was just starting to figure things out,” said a childhood friend. “He didn’t deserve this. No one did.”

Also tragically killed was 41-year-old Fnu Reena, a mother of two and an innocent bystander who had been attending WestFest with her family. Witnesses report that Reena was struck by a stray bullet as she stood in line at a nearby food truck. Her death has left a gaping hole in the lives of her loved ones and the broader community, where she was known for her kindness, hard work, and devotion to her children.

“She was a beautiful soul,” said a co-worker. “Always smiling, always helping. She loved her kids more than anything.”

Adding to the anguish is the loss of an 8-month-old baby, who was also hit by a stray bullet and later died from his injuries. Police and officials have declined to publicly identify the child, respecting the wishes and privacy of the devastated family. The infant’s death has sent shockwaves through the community, leaving many questioning how such a joyous night turned into a scene of unspeakable tragedy.

West Valley City Police Chief Colleen Jacobs held a press conference Sunday morning, calling the incident “one of the most heartbreaking nights in our city’s history.”

“This was a calculated and deliberate act that resulted not only in the targeted killing of a young man but also the tragic deaths of two innocent people — including a baby. We are dedicating every resource available to bringing those responsible to justice.”

Authorities believe there were multiple suspects involved in the shooting. As of Monday, no arrests have been made, but detectives are actively following leads and reviewing surveillance footage from the festival and surrounding areas. They are urging any witnesses or individuals with video footage to come forward.

In the wake of the tragedy, WestFest organizers have canceled all remaining events, and the grounds have been closed as the investigation continues. Grief counselors and trauma support teams have been made available to attendees, vendors, and staff affected by the violence.

Local leaders, including Mayor Karen Lang, expressed outrage and sorrow over the incident.

“Our hearts are shattered. WestFest is a time for celebration, unity, and community joy. We will not allow violence to define us. We will stand together, we will heal, and we will fight for peace.”

Vigils are being planned across the city, including a candlelight gathering at Centennial Park on Tuesday evening to honor the three lives lost. A GoFundMe page has also been launched to assist the families with funeral expenses and grief counseling.

As the city grapples with sorrow, it also faces a renewed urgency to address youth violence and ensure public safety. Community activists and clergy are calling for deeper conversations around conflict resolution, gun access, and support for at-risk youth.

This tragic incident has pierced the heart of West Valley City, but in its wake, the community is coming together — mourning, remembering, and refusing to let hate or fear overshadow love and resilience.

Anyone with information about the shooting is urged to call the West Valley City Police Department at (801) 840-4000 or submit an anonymous tip through the Utah Crime Stoppers hotline.