Downtown Salt Lake City Shooting Leads to Federal Charges

A 40-year-old man with a prior felony conviction is now facing federal charges following a shooting that occurred during a large altercation in downtown Salt Lake City. The incident resulted in a bystander being hospitalized with a gunshot wound.

Details of the Incident

Angelo Mark Garcia of Salt Lake City was indicted by a federal grand jury on one count of possession of a firearm. The shooting took place around 1 a.m. on March 14th in the vicinity of 200 South and 200 East, involving approximately 20 people.

Escalation and Injuries

The fight escalated, leading to gunfire and a life-threatening gunshot wound to the abdomen of one individual, who was subsequently hospitalized. Investigators say Garcia allegedly fired a gun into the air and then towards other people involved in the fight.

Arrest and Evidence

Utah Highway Patrol stopped Garcia on State Street shortly after the shooting for a traffic violation. The trooper observed “red-brown stains” on Garcia and his passenger’s clothing and noted they “appeared to have been in a recent altercation.”

Firearm Recovery

A firearm was discovered under the passenger seat of the vehicle, which authorities believe matches shell casings recovered from the scene. Video evidence reportedly shows Garcia discharging his weapon during the altercation.

Legal Ramifications

Melissa Holyoak, First Assistant United States Attorney of the District of Utah, stated, “As a previously convicted felon, Garcia is restricted from owning or possessing a firearm and ammunition.”

Court Appearance

Garcia was scheduled to make his initial appearance on the federal charges on Friday, April 3rd, at the federal courthouse in Salt Lake City.