Bullets Shatter Peace: Utah’s ISKCON Temple Hit by Midnight Gunfire

SPANISH FORK, UTAH – A well-known Hindu temple in Utah has been badly damaged after gunmen opened fire in the middle of the night, in what police believe was a hate crime targeting the community.

The ISKCON Sri Sri Radha Krishna Temple, famous for hosting the largest Holi Festival in the United States, was attacked over several nights. According to temple officials, between 20 and 30 bullets were fired at the building and the surrounding property. The gunfire left the temple’s hand-carved arches broken and walls punctured.

“Shots rang out while people were still inside,” the temple said in an official statement. “It is only by grace that no one was hurt. But the fear and pain this has caused will stay with us for a long time.”

For decades, the Spanish Fork temple has been a place of peace and inclusion, welcoming thousands of visitors each year for festivals, prayers, and community events. Many residents said they were shocked that such violence could happen in their town.

The Consulate General of India in San Francisco quickly condemned the attack and urged authorities to act. “This incident is unacceptable,” the consulate stated. “We stand with the devotees and the entire Indian community, and we call for those responsible to be brought to justice without delay.”

This shooting follows a rise in attacks on Hindu temples across the United States. Earlier this year, the BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir in Chino Hills, California, was vandalized with anti-India graffiti just days before a planned Khalistan referendum event.

The Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA) said these events show a troubling pattern of hate. “Yet another Hindu temple attacked this time with bullets instead of paint,” CoHNA shared online. “This must stop.”

Local law enforcement has opened a full investigation and is asking nearby residents and businesses to review any security footage and report suspicious activity.

Despite the damage, temple leaders remain committed to their mission. “This is a house of love and community,” an ISKCON spokesperson said. “No act of hate will ever destroy that spirit.”

Anyone with information about the shootings is urged to contact the Utah County Sheriff’s Office immediately.