SPANISH FORK, Utah (Diya TV) — A Hindu temple in Spanish Fork, Utah was damaged after a series of targeted shootings, shocking the local community. Authorities have launched a full investigation, and temple leaders are calling the attacks a hate crime. The Utah County Sheriff’s Office confirmed multiple acts of vandalism at the ISKCON Sri Sri Radha Krishna Temple.
Deputies responded after temple staff reported damage from gunfire. Investigators recovered several shell casings outside the temple, located near State Street and 8500 South. Officials believe the incidents occurred over several nights. Surveillance footage captured a pickup truck near the temple at the time of one shooting, but no suspects have been identified. Deputies recovered about 20 shell casings on the road outside the temple fence.
According to the temple’s co-founder, Vaibhavi Devi Dasi, between 20 and 30 bullets were fired at the temple building and grounds. The gunfire caused serious structural damage, including bullet holes in the ornate, hand-carved arches and a window. One bullet struck a wall inside the main worship hall while people were present. Temple leaders say the attacks were premeditated and rooted in hate. Vai Warden, the temple board president, said the repeated nature of the shootings signals a clear motive.
“It has to be [a hate crime],” Warden said. “Even if it’s just teenagers, it’s still hatred—because of the repetition, because of the planning.”
The first sign of trouble came on June 18 when staff reported hearing a loud bang and seeing smoke from the roof of the temple’s radio station. At the time, it was believed to be fireworks. No report was filed. But by June 27, bullet holes were visible in a window and wall, confirming the site had come under attack. The most recent shooting happened early on June 28. One temple volunteer said she heard 13 gunshots and saw more damage in the morning.
The 10,000-square-foot temple was built in the early 1990s on a 15-acre property. It has long served as a spiritual and cultural center for the Hindu community in Utah and is home to peacocks, llamas, and cows. The damage to the temple’s intricate arches is especially painful. Each arch is worth about $10,000.
In response to the violence, temple leaders are tightening security. A guard has been stationed at night. Staff are also installing new surveillance cameras, lights, and fencing. Springville-based GARD has donated a mobile surveillance truck for two weeks.
The Utah County Sheriff’s Office has increased patrols in the area. Authorities are asking anyone with information to contact Central Dispatch. Callers can remain anonymous. A $1,000 reward is being offered for tips that lead to an arrest and conviction. Members of the Latter-day Saints community have voiced support for the temple. Monica Bambrough, assistant director of the Mount Nebo Communication Council, expressed sorrow over the attacks.
“These senseless acts have no place in our communities,” Bambrough said. “We are grateful for their presence and their teachings of peace.”
Other LDS leaders also visited the temple to offer their support. The Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA) condemned the shootings. In a post on X, the group called attention to recent attacks on Hindu temples in California, New York, Texas, Minnesota, and now Utah. They urged local and state authorities to treat the case with urgency.
Temple officials and community leaders are calling on the public to speak up. They are asking anyone who may have seen or heard anything unusual near the temple to contact authorities. “We’ve been here for over 20 years,” said Warden. “This is the first time we’ve faced any aggression.”
Despite the attacks, the temple continues to welcome visitors. Leaders hope the community will come together to promote peace and stand against hate.
