Drones and metal detectors: Why securing outdoor events is challenging

September 11, 2025

Conservative commentator Charlie Kirk was fatally shot at an open-air speaking event at Utah Valley University in Utah, despite having security personnel present who responded immediately following the attack. The shooter fired from a rooftop of a nearby building during the event, which was attended by approximately 3,000 people and had six police officers working security. Security experts have raised questions about the adequacy of safety measures for the outdoor venue, noting that standard indoor security protocols like bag checks and magnetometers weren't utilized, and suggesting that drone surveillance might have helped detect the rooftop threat.

Who is affected

Charlie Kirk (deceased victim)
The 3,000 attendees at the Utah Valley University event
Kirk's organization Turning Point USA
Security personnel and police officers working the event
College campuses hosting similar open-air events

What action is being taken

Investigators are examining the circumstances of the shooting
The FBI is involved in the investigation
Security experts are analyzing the security failures that led to the incident
University police are sharing information about the security presence at the event

Why it matters

The incident raises questions about security protocols for high-profile speakers at open-air campus events
It highlights the challenges of securing outdoor venues compared to indoor events where bag checks and magnetometers are standard
The attack demonstrates the vulnerability of public figures who have received death threats
It exposes limitations in threat assessment when events are held in traditionally low-crime areas like Orem, Utah
The incident reveals gaps in security planning, particularly regarding surveillance of elevated positions surrounding open venues

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC