KEARNS, Utah — An 18-year-old has been identified as the victim who died following a shooting outside a funeral in Kearns on Monday, Aug. 17, according to the Unified Police Department. Police said officers had been asked to provide a presence near the funeral before the shooting. At approximately 11:25 a.m., officers heard gunfire from the south side of the building and immediately responded.
They found Vilisoni Angilau, 18, suffering from a gunshot wound in the street. He was taken to a hospital but was later pronounced dead. While officers were assisting Angilau, they saw another injured person being carried toward a vehicle. Police attempted to stop the group, but the vehicle left the area.
Officers pursued the vehicle and stopped it near 4700 South and 4000 West. Inside, they found a 17-year-old boy suffering from gunshot wounds. Police said the teenager was identified as a suspect in the shooting and remained in critical condition.
Another 18-year-old male was found injured at the church and transported to a hospital in critical condition. His identity has not been released.
Investigation Underway
According to police, investigators believe the shooting followed an ongoing dispute involving two families. Authorities said an argument escalated into a fight, during which the father of the 17-year-old suspect, Afuhia Manatau, allegedly provided his son with a firearm.
Police allege the teenager used the gun to shoot Angilau and the other 18-year-old before the weapon was taken from him and he was also shot.
Manatau has been arrested and faces a murder allegation. The 17-year-old suspect is not being publicly identified because of his age, and prosecutors will determine possible charges later.
Detectives continue to investigate the circumstances, including whether there was any gang involvement.
Vilisoni Angilau’s death has left family, friends and the Kearns community mourning as investigators continue working to establish the full circumstances surrounding the shooting.