A viral theory claimed a man behind Charlie Kirk looked like Trump’s Secret Service agent. The truth: he was Kirk’s personal security guard. FBI continues its investigation into the assassination.
The tragic death of Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University has already fueled multiple conspiracy theories online. One claim suggested that a man standing behind Kirk during the shooting looked similar to a Secret Service agent who once protected Donald Trump.
Why People Made the Connection
Observers online pointed out that the man appeared to make hand signals moments before the shooting, sparking speculation that he might have been part of a covert operation. Some compared him to a Secret Service agent who shielded Trump during the July 2024 Butler, Pennsylvania assassination attempt.
In that incident, 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks fired multiple rounds at Trump, with one bullet grazing his ear. Trump’s security team reacted instantly, pushing him to safety. Social media users claimed that one of those agents looked “awfully familiar” to the man seen with Kirk in Utah.
“The guy behind Kirk sure looks familiar,” one post read.
“One of the guys making hand signals seconds before the shot looks awfully familiar,” another added.
The Reality Behind the Rumors
Despite the viral comparisons, other users quickly debunked the theory. According to multiple confirmations, the man in question was Kirk’s personal security guard, someone who had traveled with him to several past events. He was not affiliated with the Secret Service.
FBI Releases New Evidence
The FBI released images and video of the shooter on September 11, urging the public to help identify the suspect. Footage shows the gunman fleeing by jumping off a rooftop immediately after the attack.
Investigators confirmed they collected shoe impressions, a forearm imprint, and a palm print from the rooftop. A weapon and ammunition were later found in a wooded area near the university.
Questions Over Security
More than 3,000 people attended the debate, leading many to question how such a high-profile event had limited protection. Utah Valley University’s police chief, Jeff Long, confirmed only six officers were on duty, in addition to Kirk’s private security detail.
In a press briefing, Long admitted:
“You try to get your bases covered, and unfortunately, today, we didn’t. Because of that, we have this tragic incident.”
The FBI investigation remains ongoing as the nation continues to react to Kirk’s assassination.
Featured Image Credit: Getty Images/The Salt Lake Tribune
