Salt Lake City, UT – A man implicated in a 2022 fatal shooting outside the Salt Palace Convention Center has pleaded guilty to manslaughter and aggravated robbery, court records show.
Joshua Goy Riak, 23, entered his plea on Wednesday, admitting to his role in the killing that took place after a dispute over a card game turned violent.
Deadly Dispute Over High-Stakes Card Game
The incident occurred on September 3, 2022, when Deliford Knight, 41, a Florida man known for using card tricks to swindle money at conventions, engaged Riak and two other men in a game. According to police, Riak lost $3,000, sparking an argument that escalated outside the venue.
As the confrontation spilled onto the street, Knight tried to back away, but Nogolweit “Nunu” Kug allegedly pulled a gun and shot him in broad daylight. Authorities say Deng Mawat Buk ran toward a parking garage, while Riak and Kug searched Knight’s pockets, appearing to take cash from him.
Legal Proceedings and Gang Affiliations
Knight was treated by bystanders and first responders, but he succumbed to his injuries at the scene.
Riak, Kug, and Buk—who are cousins and alleged gang members—were originally charged with murder and aggravated robbery. Buk also faces a charge of obstructing justice. Kug and Buk are set to stand trial together beginning February 21.
During a preliminary hearing, a witness testified that Knight had raised his hands and was trying to stand up when he was shot. Another bystander captured the shooting on video from inside a vehicle.
Plea Deal and Sentencing
As part of a plea agreement, Riak’s murder charge was reduced to manslaughter, a second-degree felony. He is set to be sentenced on April 3.
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