By Riley Wiener

On Sept. 10, 2024, right-wing political activist Charlie Kirk appeared at the University of Colorado Boulder during his “You’re Being Brainwashed Tour,” which challenged liberal viewpoints on college campuses. Exactly one year later, he was shot and killed while speaking at Utah Valley University, his first stop on his “American Comeback Tour.” 

Uncensored video footage circulated on social media of Kirk being struck in the neck. He was rushed to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The gunman, 22-year-old Tyler Robinson, will be charged with aggravated murder, an offense that is eligible for the death penalty, according to Utah County Attorney Jeff Gray.

Kirk was the founder and president of Turning Point USA, a nonprofit organization that advocates conservative politics on college campuses. Hundreds of people attended his CU event in September last year, including junior Betsy Scanlan. She was shocked to learn of Kirk’s killing.  

“After seeing him a year ago and being able to hear him talk and have an educated response to every question or comment was very eye-opening,” Scanlan said. “It made me reflect on all the different policies that Charlie stands for. But no matter what, death is super sad, and gun violence is never okay.”  

In the aftermath of Kirk’s killing, social media was flooded with hateful comments and calls for revenge, CU Boulder students are feeling the political tension. Some students are worried about their own safety on campus.    

Jeff Lefler is a former special agent with the U.S. State Department’s Diplomatic Security Service. He spoke to us about his experience in event protection and what students should do if they attend high-risk events.  

“In any given event where a protected individual was speaking, preliminary considerations are taken regarding the location, public access, and entry controls,” Lefler said.  

He said students who go to such events should know their surroundings.  

“Remain alert and don’t hesitate to report something out of the ordinary,” Lefler said. “The old rule of thumb still applies– if you see something, say something.”   

Chicago Police Officer Gus Vasilopoulos served on the force for more than 40 years. He has been conducting extensive research since Kirk’s killing.

“Trust your instincts, know the exits, and identify cover when attending large events,” he said. “It is important to make yourself a smaller target.” 

Students looking for help coping in these tough times can use the CU Mobile Safety App to report suspicious activity or concerns. 

Story edited by Logan Benson