UPDATE: A shocking encounter unfolded just minutes before the tragic shooting of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk on September 10, 2023, as Hunter Kozak, a student at Utah Valley University, shared his harrowing experience. Kozak, who was the last person to question Kirk before the incident, described the moment as “visceral,” stating he was fully aware of the chaos that was about to erupt.
In an exclusive interview with ABC News, Kozak revealed that, despite the tension, he was not initially concerned for his own safety. He recalled, “I was not worried for my life. It was just so visceral what I saw in front of me.” This terrifying event has left him shaken as authorities continue to investigate possible motives behind what many are calling a political assassination.
Kozak arrived at the event early, eager to engage with Kirk on several topics. After expressing his disagreement with Kirk’s views to a staff member, he was led to a designated area for audience questions. When it was his turn, he stood at the podium, approximately 5 to 10 feet away from Kirk, when the gunfire erupted.
“I thought the gun was five feet behind my head,” Kozak recounted. He instinctively recognized the danger and immediately dropped to the ground, searching for his wife amidst the chaos. “I knew I wasn’t a target, but I needed to get out of the vicinity,” he added.
Following the shooting, multiple police units flooded the campus, and Kozak approached an officer to provide his contact details, identifying himself as the last person to ask Kirk a question. His wife, who was recording video footage during the event, submitted the material to authorities, adding crucial evidence to the unfolding investigation.
During a press conference held by Utah Governor’s Office on September 11, reporters highlighted the need for authorities to speak with the individual who posed the final question to Kirk. This prompted Kozak to reach out to the police again, resulting in a thorough inquiry by the FBI.
Despite the investigation, Kozak expressed feeling like he was not the focus of law enforcement’s attention. “The vibe I got was that they weren’t really looking for me,” he stated, carefully avoiding specifics that might hinder the ongoing investigations.
Kozak, a politically engaged TikTok content creator and father of two, has faced backlash and conspiracy theories online after the incident. He expressed frustration over the negative comments, emphasizing his commitment to fostering political discussions—something he believes he had in common with Kirk.
As the investigation progresses, the community is left grappling with the implications of this tragic event. The police continue their manhunt for the shooter, as details surrounding the attack remain unclear.
What’s Next: Authorities are urging anyone with information related to the shooting to come forward. Kozak’s experience sheds light on the human impact of political tensions in today’s climate. The public awaits more updates as police and the FBI work diligently to bring clarity to this disturbing incident.
Stay tuned for further developments as this story unfolds.