A man wearing a white coat was arrested on Thursday for allegedly trespassing in the area where Charlie Kirk was killed. He told authorities he was there to take photos, claiming it was to remember the scene.
Russell Kim Kennington, although not considered a suspect in Kirk’s murder, crossed two sets of yellow tape marking the crime scene on the campus of Utah Valley University. Reports indicate that Kennington fled when police asked for identification but was caught after a brief chase.
According to an affidavit, Kennington had to bypass significant barriers to reach the primary crime scene. Video footage shows him being handcuffed by police and escorted away from the scene.
After his arrest, Kennington explained that he was “photographing it reminiscent of the scene.” He described his approach as trying to “trace the shadows” and avoid drawing attention to himself, ostensibly to not interfere with the ongoing investigation.
Police found a selfie on his phone that appeared to be taken at the scene.
Kennington now faces charges including obstruction of justice, a felony, and criminal trespass, which is a class B misdemeanor.
Kirk was speaking to a crowd of around 3,000 when he was shot by a sniper located about 200 yards away. This tragic event occurred during his national American comeback tour.
Recently released footage by the FBI depicted the suspect fleeing from the rooftop after the shooting.
Kirk was survived by his wife, Erica Franzbe, a former Miss Arizona, and their two young children. Vice President JD Vance arranged for Kirk’s body to be returned to Salt Lake City, with plans for the family to travel later that day.
Kirk’s remains were subsequently transported to Hansen Funeral Chapel in Phoenix.
