Heartbreaking WestFest Shooting Claims Lives of Three in West Valley City — Community Mourns Infant Anderson Garcia Cabrera Jr., Hassan Lugundi, and Fnu Reena
West Valley City, UT — A joyful summer celebration turned into a nightmare on June 15, 2025, when a mass shooting at the WestFest carnival tragically took the lives of three individuals, including an 8-month-old baby boy. The devastating event has left the community in deep sorrow as families, friends, and neighbors grieve the loss of innocent lives.
Among the victims was Anderson Garcia Cabrera Jr., an 8-month-old infant described by his family as a happy and lively baby. Anderson was one of twin boys; fortunately, his brother was unharmed in the chaos. His family, originally from Guatemala, now faces the heartbreaking task of repatriating his remains.
Also killed was Hassan Lugundi, an 18-year-old man from West Valley City, believed to have been the intended target of the shooting. His promising life was cut tragically short in an act of violence that shocked the community.
The third victim, Fnu Reena, a 41-year-old woman from nearby West Jordan, Utah, was an innocent bystander caught in the crossfire during the incident. Her sudden loss adds to the profound grief felt by families across the area.
The shooting erupted after a dispute between two groups escalated near a police command post at the carnival. A 16-year-old suspect opened fire, injuring two other teenagers and a pregnant woman who was hurt while fleeing the scene. Authorities quickly arrested the suspect, who now faces three counts of homicide.
The West Valley City Police Department is conducting a thorough investigation into the incident and has condemned the violence, highlighting concerns about the rise of youth-related violent acts in the region.
In response to the tragedy, hundreds of community members gathered for a vigil at Hamilton Park to honor the victims and show solidarity with the grieving families. Local leaders and neighbors called for increased safety measures to protect children and families from future harm.
A GoFundMe campaign has been established to assist the Garcia family with funeral expenses and the repatriation of Anderson Jr.’s remains to Guatemala. The outpouring of support from the community has been significant, reflecting the collective heartbreak and determination to help those affected.
No family should ever endure such a profound loss, and the community stands united in mourning these lives lost far too soon. The incident serves as a somber reminder of the fragility of life and the urgent need for peace and safety in neighborhoods everywhere.
Those wishing to support the families may contribute to the GoFundMe page set up in Anderson Garcia Cabrera Jr.’s memory: Donate to Help Bring Anderson Home to Guatemala
Our deepest condolences go out to the families of Anderson Garcia Cabrera Jr., Hassan Lugundi, and Fnu Reena. May they find strength and healing in the love and support of their community.