Family Files Claim Blaming Utah Valley University Over Kirk’s Campus Killing

Charlie Kirk was shot and killed while speaking at an outdoor event on Utah Valley University’s campus, his family says in a legal notice accusing the university, local police and state officials of failures that left him vulnerable. The notice, filed on 9 September ahead of the first anniversary of Kirk’s death, alleges inadequate security planning, insufficient police presence and ignored warnings about unsecured rooftops where the shooter was positioned.

The family’s filing states Kirk, 31, addressed a crowd of thousands in a courtyard surrounded by tall buildings and elevated observation points, which the notice describes as creating a foreseeable danger. The notice asserts the university failed to perform a meaningful security assessment, did not station enough officers and lacked an on-site ambulance.

Legal counsel for the family also noted warnings about securing surrounding rooftops were disregarded. The filing references the attempted assassination of former President Trump the previous year as context for rooftop-shooter risk, quoting the family’s attorney D Loren Washburn.

Utah Valley University acknowledged receipt of the notice but declined further comment, saying it handles legal matters according to established processes and remains focused on supporting the campus community, according to a statement shared with CBS News by the BBC’s US partner.

Tyler Robinson, a 23-year-old from Utah accused of shooting Kirk from a rooftop, denies aggravated murder and six other charges. Prosecutors have sought the death penalty. Robinson is due in court next month to be advised of his trial date.

Liberal News Analysis: What Does This Development Mean?

The legal notice names Utah Valley University, local police, the state of Utah and university officials, alleging awareness of threats and failures to act. It frames the outdoor event location and lack of rooftop security as critical lapses. The filing signals an intent to pursue formal legal action following the notice.

Quick Glance: What You Need to Know

• Charlie Kirk was shot and killed while speaking at an outdoor event on Utah Valley University’s campus.
• The family filed a notice on 9 September alleging security failures by the university, police and state officials.
• Tyler Robinson, accused of the shooting, denies aggravated murder; prosecutors seek the death penalty.