Recalling the traumatic moment when gunshots rang out, the student engaged in a debate with Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University described the chaos that ensued. Kirk, who was engaged in a discussion about gun violence with students, was fatally shot while speaking to Hunter Kozak, a 29-year-old student studying philosophy and mathematics education.
Initially unsure of the loud noise he heard, Kozak’s realization of the situation dawned upon seeing Kirk wounded. He recounted his immediate reaction to drop to the floor as the gravity of the situation sank in. Kozak expressed his belief that Kirk was the intended target of the attack.
Sharing his account with the Washington Post, Kozak revealed that he was moved to the front of the debate queue due to his left-wing perspectives. As chaos erupted following the shooting, students banded together for safety, seeking shelter away from the scene.
Kozak, a member of the “Unf**k America Tour,” which aims to foster dialogue and engagement at Turning Point events, spoke out against speculations linking him to the shooting incident. Concerned about potential backlash as a liberal activist, Kozak hesitated to engage with those recognizing him from event videos, fearing conspiracy theories targeting him and his family.
In response to online rumors, Kozak created a video to clarify his presence at the event and his intent to challenge Kirk’s assertions regarding transgender individuals and mass shootings in the U.S. The student’s final exchange with Kirk before the tragedy unfolded highlighted their differing perspectives on the issue.
Expressing his disdain for those glorifying the shooter, Kozak emphasized the human toll of the tragedy, acknowledging the impact on Kirk’s family and his own. Despite ideological differences, Kozak underscored Kirk’s commitment to open dialogue, a principle they both shared.
Reflecting on the incident, Kozak lamented the loss and extended his condolences to Kirk’s loved ones, emphasizing the importance of civil discourse over violence in effecting change.
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