From ABC7 Los Angeles · · 1m 40s
Security report finds deficiencies at Utah Valley University
Utah Valley University report reveals security failures that led to Charlie Kirk's assassination.
In brief
Utah Valley University report reveals security failures that led to Charlie Kirk's assassination. A report found Utah Valley University failed to assess security risks for Charlie Kirk's event, contributing to his rooftop assassination. Originally reported by ABC7 Los Angeles.
Report on Charlie Kirk's assassination
A new report on Charlie Kirk's assassination last year says his Turning Point USA organization insisted he speak outdoors despite security concerns, while the university where he was killed didn't properly assess dangers like the possibility of a rooftop shooter.
University security assessment failures
The university did not conduct a formal security assessment, did not create a written event action plan, and deferred critical decision making to Turning Point USA.
Turning Point USA's planning meeting
A Turning Point representative insisted at an August 2025 planning meeting that Kirk speak at a courtyard on campus because he had been there previously and the organization was familiar with the location.
University officials' concerns
Some university officials expressed reservations about holding the event in an outdoor space with tall buildings around, but ultimately allowed the event to proceed.
Report's assessment of decisions
In our assessment, those decisions were consequential, the report said, noting the outdoor location created significant protective operations considerations.
Kirk's family lawsuit claims
Kirk's family sent a wrongful death notice to Utah officials claiming Utah Valley University officials made reckless decisions that left him vulnerable to a rooftop sniper.
Kirk's assassination details
Kirk was killed by a sniper perched on a rooftop more than 400 feet (122 meters) away, authorities said, while debating students in an outdoor courtyard surrounded by tall buildings with several thousand people in attendance.
At a glance
A report found Utah Valley University failed to assess security risks for Charlie Kirk's event, contributing to his rooftop assassination.
