A “suspicious device” was safely detonated by law enforcement at Utah State University on Tuesday afternoon. This occurred just ahead of the anticipated Turning Point USA event, marking the first in-state gathering since the tragic assassination of Charlie Kirk. The university had already heightened its security protocols in response to increasing concerns.
As stated by Utah State University, the device was discovered near Old Main, a prominent campus building. Although classified as “non-explosive,” the bomb squad took precautionary measures to detonate it. A video obtained by Fox News captures the moment just before the explosion, with shouts of “fire in the hole.”
The university’s announcement read, “A suspicious device was found near the exterior of Old Main. Both university and local law enforcement responded swiftly to the situation. The device was assessed and deemed non-explosive. To ensure safety, the bomb squad proceeded to detonate the device. The Old Main building is now secure, and all planned activities can continue as scheduled.”
Ellis Bruch, the Executive Director of Public Safety at Utah State University, informed Fox News that a university staff member noticed someone placing the device under a tree near Old Main and reported it as suspicious. A K-9 unit gave a “bit of an indication” about the device, which led to the bomb squad’s involvement.
Bruch confirmed that no injuries were reported during the incident.
The Utah State University’s Turning Point USA chapter is scheduled to host notable figures including Alex Clark, Sen. Mike Lee (R-Utah), Gov. Spencer Cox of Utah, Rep. Andy Biggs (R-Ariz.), and former Congressman Jason Chaffetz on Tuesday evening. This event marks the first TPUSA gathering in Utah following the assassination of the organization’s founder at Utah Valley University on September 10.
Recent Updates on the Charlie Kirk Shooting in Utah
- Authorities identified Tyler Robinson, 22, as the suspected assassin responsible for the fatal shooting of Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University on September 10.
- Robinson faces charges including aggravated murder, felony discharge of a firearm causing serious injury, and obstruction of justice.
- Law enforcement established that Robinson was living with a transgender partner, and their communications played a crucial role in apprehending him.
- Charlie Kirk, 31, co-founder of Turning Point USA, was fatally shot in the neck during an event on his American Comeback Tour.
- Former President Trump, among others, has called for the death penalty for the alleged assassin.
- Kirk’s remains were transported from Utah to Arizona on Air Force Two, accompanied by Vice President JD Vance, where they were received at Phoenix’s Hansen Mortuary Chapel. His body was returned to Arizona for the funeral service.
- The funeral, which Trump has pledged to attend, is set for September 21 at State Farm Stadium, the home of the Arizona Cardinals.
- Survived by his wife and two young children, Kirk was a rising star within the MAGA movement. Read more about his life here.
Tyler Robinson has been charged with multiple offenses, including aggravated murder, obstruction of justice, and felony discharge of a firearm causing serious bodily injury, as well as witness tampering and committing a violent act in the presence of a child.
In light of the recent concerns, Utah State University announced that security measures for the TPUSA event will be similar to those for university sports events to ensure the safety of participants and speakers.
The security measures in place for the TPUSA event include:
- All attendees will undergo screening through magnetometers. Those bringing firearms must comply with Utah law and possess a valid conceal-carry permit.
- Backpacks and bags exceeding 6.5 by 4.5 inches will be prohibited. Small clutch purses not larger than the specifications will be subject to search.
- External signage will not be permitted.
- Re-entry after exiting the event will not be allowed.
Utah State University stated, “In response to the heightened security concerns, USU’s public safety department continues to work alongside various partners to implement necessary safety protocols and measures.”
