The latest on the search for Charlie Kirk's assassin

Law enforcement expert breaks down what's happening behind the scenes.

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THE SEARCH FOR CHARLIE KIRK’S ASSASSIN

John Dale Hartman, a former Pennsylvania police chief and nationally recognized law enforcement expert, says the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk underscores the challenges of protecting public figures at large gatherings.

In an interview, Hartman said there is no such thing as “100 percent security,” even under the gold standard of presidential protection. He noted that Kirk, unlike a president or head of state, did not have access to the extensive manpower and resources of the Secret Service.

Reports indicated Kirk had a small security detail and six university police officers at the event. Hartman said that number made response difficult. “That’s a lot to ask,” he said, adding that effective protection requires multiple layers — from screening entrances to counter-sniper teams.

Hartman, who has worked with federal, state, county and university law enforcement agencies, stressed the importance of coordination. “You need communication with 911 centers, a command center on site, and cooperation with EMS, fire and other support agencies,” he said. “These events can’t be thrown together.”

He explained that when suspects are detained and later released, it is part of the investigative process. “You draw a wide net and release them if they’re not responsible. What you don’t want is to let the actual suspect go,” Hartman said.

Hartman believes investigators will eventually find the gunman, noting the sophistication of today’s forensic science, surveillance systems and interagency cooperation. “There’s a lot of good people working this case right now,” he said. “They’re putting in sleepless hours.”

Hartman, now an independent consultant, leads John Dale Hartman Investigations, a firm that provides expertise on complex cases nationwide. He said his years in law enforcement have shown him the importance of preparation and communication in preventing tragedy.

Radio Host Justin Barclay Reflects on Charlie Kirk’s Legacy and the State of Free Speech

Justin Barclay, Michigan radio host and podcaster, joined me to discuss the tragic death of Charlie Kirk and the broader challenges facing public discourse. Barclay recalled meeting Kirk at a Turning Point USA event in Detroit, describing him as a man of faith who connected with people without hostility.

“He wasn’t extreme. He was engaging and related to people so well,” Barclay said. Kirk’s reach extended from radio and podcasts to millions of followers on TikTok and college campuses, where he encouraged young people to participate in political dialogue.

Barclay noted that while Kirk knew the risks of speaking in open spaces, he pressed forward anyway. The host said that courage highlights the growing dangers for public figures, including himself, who have faced threats for expressing strong opinions.

Beyond safety concerns, Barclay emphasized the erosion of civil debate. He lamented that social media has pushed people into echo chambers, fueling division and extremism. “We used to pride ourselves on being able to have conversations and agree to disagree,” he said.

Despite the hostility, Barclay called for prayer, compassion, and respect across political divides. “We wrestle not against flesh and blood,” he said. “Evil is real, but so is faith.”