Kirk Family Files Notice of Claim Against UVU Over Security Failures in Charlie Kirk’s Killing
The Charlie Kirk estate and family have filed a formal notice of claim against Utah Valley University (UVU) and the state of Utah, alleging that negligent security measures directly led to Kirk’s assassination on September 10, 2025. The filing names UVU, its police department, Chief Jeffrey Long, former President Astrid Tuminez, and the state as defendants. Plaintiffs include Kirk’s widow Erika, their two children, and his parents. The claim asserts that UVU failed to conduct risk assessments, provided only six officers for a large outdoor event, and neglected to monitor rooftop access or surveillance cameras in real time. Although the notice does not specify a damages amount, it preserves the right to sue, with a lawsuit typically following 90 days after such a filing. This legal action follows the one-year anniversary of Kirk’s death and ongoing trials for alleged shooter Tyler Robinson.
Key points
- The Kirk family and estate filed a notice of claim against UVU, the state of Utah, and specific university officials, including Police Chief Jeffrey Long and former President Astrid Tuminez.
- The claim alleges that UVU’s negligence, including a lack of risk assessment and inadequate security planning, created a foreseeable danger that resulted in Kirk’s assassination.
- Plaintiffs include Erika Kirk, her two children, and 'prospective plaintiffs' Robert and Kathryn Kirk, Charlie’s parents.
- The notice criticizes UVU for assigning only six police officers to the event and denying requests for additional security or assistance from local police departments.
- The filing asserts that surveillance cameras were not monitored in real time and that drones were not used to secure rooftops, despite warnings from Turning Point USA staff about rooftop access risks.
- The notice of claim does not specify a monetary amount but is a prerequisite to filing a wrongful death lawsuit, which typically occurs 90 days after the notice.
Background
This legal action follows the one-year anniversary of Charlie Kirk’s death on September 10, 2025, during a Turning Point USA rally at UVU. Kirk was shot by Tyler Robinson, who is charged with aggravated murder and faces the death penalty if convicted. Earlier coverage noted that the family had previously faulted UVU for security lapses, including the absence of first responders and bag checks. A memorial held at UVU in September 2026 drew thousands of attendees, highlighting Kirk’s continued influence on conservative campus activism. The current notice of claim formalizes the family’s intent to pursue legal accountability for what they describe as preventable failures by university and state officials.
Why it matters
The notice of claim signals a potential high-profile wrongful death lawsuit that could hold a public university and state officials liable for security failures in the protection of a prominent political figure. It highlights the legal and financial consequences of inadequate risk assessment for high-profile events on public campuses. The case may set precedents for university liability in cases involving political figures and the adequacy of security protocols for large outdoor gatherings.
What to watch
The Kirk family has 90 days from the notice of claim to file a formal lawsuit if a settlement is not reached. UVU and the state of Utah are expected to respond to the notice, potentially leading to negotiations or litigation. The trial for Tyler Robinson, the alleged shooter, is also pending, with prosecutors seeking the death penalty if he is convicted.
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