A revered Hindu place of worship in Utah, the Sri Sri Radha Krishna Temple near Spanish Fork, has become the apparent target of a disturbing series of late-night shootings, which temple leaders are calling a hate crime and possibly an act of domestic terrorism.
Over multiple nights, 20 to 30 bullets were fired from outside the property, damaging key parts of the temple, including irreplaceable architectural features and a window in the main prayer room. Some bullets reportedly traveled through the worship area, lodging in opposite walls. A Krishna Radio Station building, also located on the temple’s grounds, was hit as well.
The first signs of attack emerged on June 18, when a loud bang was heard at the radio station while people were still inside. Initially unsure of the cause, temple leaders did not report the incident until further gunfire occurred. On June 20, a temple window was shattered by a bullet. That same night, and again later, more shots were fired from at least 100 yards away, with flashes seen on surveillance footage, though the shooter’s license plate could not be identified.
Co-founder Vai Warden described the attacks as calculated and said the perpetrators appeared to target the temple’s dome, visible from outside the fence. Leaders said the events went beyond simple vandalism and pointed to deep-seated hate as the motive.
To protect the site, the temple has stationed nightly security, increased lighting, and enhanced camera surveillance. The Utah County Sheriff’s Office is investigating and has recovered bullet casings from the scene. They are asking anyone with information to call 801-798-5600, with anonymity guaranteed. A $1,000 reward is being offered for leads that result in arrest and conviction.
Repair costs are estimated to reach several thousand dollars, and the temple may soon launch a GoFundMe campaign. Despite safety concerns, the temple remains open. Some staff, however, are now leaving due to fears for their safety.
Temple leaders urge the public to stay alert and report any gunfire in the area. They remain committed to fostering peace, even in the face of what they describe as “seriously planned” violence motivated by hatred.
