Charlie Kirk's death raises questions on security at political events

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Just eight days after addressing a packed crowd in Visalia, the outspoken conservative activist Charlie Kirk was fatally shot during a stop on his national college tour in Utah.

Kirk, the CEO of Turning Point USA, was speaking at Utah Valley University as part of his Prove Me Wrong tour, a series of open forums aimed at fostering debate on college campuses.

The shooting occurred on Wednesday afternoon and is being investigated as a politically motivated assassination.

RELATED: Manhunt for shooter continues after Charlie Kirk killed in 'political assassination': officials

Clovis native Matthew Gee, who worked alongside Kirk for more than two years at Turning Point USA, described the man some say was the future of the GOP.

"I've never seen him look so strong, so rooted, so passionate, so happy," Gee said. "I think this was peak Charlie."

Gee says Kirk's security detail included former Secret Service agents and U.S. Marines.

"I've never not felt safe at a Turning Point USA event," he added.

Kirk's recent appearance at Visalia First Church drew thousands, including student journalists from Fresno State.

RELATED: Charlie Kirk was at event at Visalia church 1 week before being shot and killed

Anahid Valencia, News Editor for The Collegian, covered the event and described the difficulty she experienced entering the venue. A sharp contrast to the scene that played out in Utah on Wednesday.

"There was a ton of security there. You weren't allowed to go in and out. You had to get fully checked," Valencia said.

Jazmin Alvarado, Editor-in-Chief of The Collegian, says safety is a top concern for student reporters when covering breaking news events around the Central Valley.

"Whoever is there has to make sure they're in a safe place, where they can stop and call myself and the news editor to let us know what's going on," Alvarado explained.

RELATED: Political commentators should avoid open, outdoor venues, law enforcement expert says

Gee is now reflecting on Kirk's legacy.

"Charlie Kirk was a true American patriot who loved his country, loved God, loved his family and would fight for that every single day," he said.

The manhunt for the suspected shooter is still underway and the investigation is still ongoing.

For news updates, follow Christina Lopez on Facebook, X and Instagram.