Kirk family's wrongful-death notice blames Utah Valley University for safety lapses

The family of Charlie Kirk, a 31-year-old conservative political activist who was shot dead at a Utah Valley University (UVU) event on 10 September 2025, has filed a wrongful-death notice that accuses university officials of a series of safety failures. The notice, submitted to state and university authorities on 9 September, names former UVU president Astrid Tuminez, campus police chief Jeffrey Long and the state of Utah as parties that may be liable.

According to the filing, the outdoor courtyard debate, attended by roughly 3,000 people, lacked several security practices that are now common at large gatherings, including adequate police staffing, rooftop monitoring, bag checks and metal detectors. The document argues that a risk assessment should have considered the possibility of a rooftop shooter, citing a prior incident involving President Donald Trump.

"The risk of a rooftop shooter should have been especially top-of-mind," wrote attorney D. Loren Washburn, who represents the Kirk family.

UVU spokesperson Sharon Turner said the university had received the notice and would respond in line with its established procedures, adding that the institution’s priority remains supporting the campus community. The Utah attorney general’s office declined to comment on potential litigation.

The notice also alleges that event organizers did not establish a secure perimeter, failed to have first responders on site, and that Kirk was transported to a hospital in a private vehicle rather than an ambulance. Police chief Long said six officers were present and coordinated with Kirk’s private security team, and the university is expanding its police force after the shooting.

Police have charged Utah resident Tyler Robinson with aggravated murder. Prosecutors say surveillance footage, DNA evidence and a handwritten note link Robinson to the rifle used in the attack. A judge has ordered the case to move forward toward trial, though a date has not yet been set.

State law permits heirs or personal representatives of a deceased person to file lawsuits for damages resulting from wrongful acts or negligence. The Kirk family’s notice does not detail the specific damages they may seek.