Kirk family files claim, threatens lawsuit over UVU shooting

The estate of Charlie Kirk and his heirs have submitted a notice of claim that signals an intent to file a wrongful-death lawsuit against Utah Valley University (UVU), the university police department, police chief Jeffrey Long, former president Astrid Tuminez and the state of Utah. The claim alleges that security lapses and planning deficiencies created a foreseeable danger that allowed a shooter to kill Kirk on Sept. 10, 2025, while he spoke at a Turning Point USA rally on campus.

According to the filing, Kirk was shot from the roof of the nearby Losee Center while addressing an audience in the Fountain Courtyard. The notice contends that UVU assigned only six officers to the event, declined to request additional support from neighboring police agencies, and failed to develop a comprehensive risk-assessment or security plan for Kirk’s "American Comeback Tour." It also notes that first responders were not on scene and Kirk was taken to Timpanogos Regional Hospital in a private vehicle rather than an ambulance.

The claim further asserts that campus surveillance was not monitored in real time and that no drones were deployed to watch the rooftop area, despite evidence presented at the shooter’s preliminary hearing that video showed the assailant moving across the roof. Turning Point USA staff reportedly warned UVU police about student roof access near Kirk’s speaking location, a concern the notice says was not acted upon.

Kirk’s attorney, Brett Parkinson, said the filing preserves the family’s right to seek accountability, adding that the family believes the death could have been avoided had the university and state fulfilled their security commitments. UVU responded that it is aware of the claim and will handle the matter according to its standard legal procedures while continuing to support the campus community.