UPDATE: The last person to question Charlie Kirk, who was shot and killed on September 10, 2023, has shared harrowing details of the incident, describing the moment as “visceral.” Hunter Kozak, a student at Utah Valley University, recounted his experience to ABC News, revealing he was not concerned for his own safety when he posed his question to Kirk just moments before the shooting.
Kozak stated, “I was not worried for my life. It was just so visceral what I saw in front of me.” His account highlights the chaotic atmosphere as Kirk was speaking, and the shocking moment when gunfire erupted. Eyewitness testimonies are crucial as authorities, including the FBI, continue to investigate what is being described as a possible political assassination.
Arriving at the event approximately 30 minutes before it started, Kozak was prepared with several questions for Kirk. He indicated to staff that he disagreed with Kirk’s views, which led to him being selected to ask a question from the podium. When he finally took the microphone, he was positioned merely 5 to 10 feet away from Kirk. It was at that moment the shot rang out, sending the audience into panic.
Kozak explained that he immediately recognized the gravity of the situation, believing it could be an assassination attempt. “I needed to get on the ground and find my wife,” he recalled. Despite being aware he was not the target, his instinct was to escape the immediate vicinity.
The aftermath of the shooting saw heavy police presence on campus, with Kozak approaching officers to provide his contact information. He informed them that he was the last person to question Kirk, and his wife had been recording a video of the event, which they later submitted to authorities.
During a press conference held by Utah’s governor on September 11, reporters highlighted the need to question Kozak further, prompting him to approach the police for the second time. He noted that his father-in-law has since hired an attorney for him, and he has undergone questioning by the FBI.
Kozak expressed a sense of frustration regarding the conspiracy theories and negative comments circulating on social media, particularly on his TikTok account. As a father of two and a politically engaged individual, he emphasizes the importance of political discourse, an interest he shared with Kirk.
This developing story raises significant questions about political safety and the implications of violence in public discourse. As investigations continue, the community grapples with the emotional impact of this tragic event, which has left many in shock.
Authorities continue to seek information related to this incident, urging anyone with details to come forward. As the situation unfolds, the focus remains on understanding the motivations behind this alarming act of violence and ensuring the safety of public forums for political discussion.
