Report finds security lapses at Utah university where Charlie Kirk was killed

A review commissioned by Utah Valley University has concluded that the campus failed to carry out a formal security assessment and did not produce a written event action plan for the outdoor appearance of Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk, who was shot dead on 10 September 2025.

The external report says university officials raised concerns in an August 2025 meeting about holding the event in a courtyard surrounded by tall buildings, suggesting indoor alternatives. Turning Point USA insisted on the outdoor location, citing familiarity with the site, and the university ultimately allowed the event to proceed.

Kirk, 31, was killed by a sniper positioned on a rooftop more than 400 feet (122 metres) away while debating students before a crowd of thousands in Orem, about 40 miles (64 kilometres) south of Salt Lake City. The review found that critical decisions were deferred to the organisation and that the planning process omitted a secure perimeter and immediate first‑responder availability.

The family has issued a wrongful‑death notice, alleging “reckless decisions” by university officials, and their lawyer said the report supports those claims. Utah Valley President Jon Anderson said the institution must act on the review’s recommendations.

Tyler Robinson, 23, has pleaded not guilty to aggravated murder and faces a possible death‑penalty charge; no trial date has been set.

Source: ABC News. Photo: Margo Evardson / Pexels.