OREM, Utah (AP) — In the wake of a tragic shooting at Utah Valley University that claimed the life of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk, students are left grappling with emotional scars and fear as they prepare to return to campus. One student recounted feeling so traumatized that he stayed home for two days, while another, unable to shake the horror of the event, asked her father to take her back home.
Authorities arrested Tyler James Robinson in connection with the shooting, calming some fears but leaving many questions about his motive and the security lapses that allowed the incident to occur. Many in the community express anxiety about returning to the university while others participate in memorials honoring Kirk.
A makeshift memorial has emerged at the university, where people have been leaving flowers and messages of love for Kirk. The university has announced increased security measures as classes are set to resume on September 17, striving to restore a sense of safety on campus.
Students like Alec Vera, who witnessed the shooting, are coping with vivid flashbacks of the traumatic event. Vera described how he felt an urge to comfort others as they mourn together at the memorial site. Other students expressed their reluctance to return to the campus, fearing the emotional weight of the site where the tragedy occurred.
Coincidentally, a neighbor of Robinson’s expressed shock at the alleged assailant’s actions. They described him as a quiet and studious young man, reflecting the perplexity that many in the community feel as they seek to make sense of this unfathomable event.
As the investigation continues and students prepare for the new semester, the Orem community stands united in grief, seeking healing amidst the sorrow of this violent act.
