Pastor Rob McCoy Remembers Charlie Kirk After Assassination at Utah Valley University

Exclusive Interview with Charlie Kirk's Pastor

Pastor Rob McCoy, who Charlie Kirk referred to as both his pastor and one of his closest friends, spoke exclusively with Fox 11 from a hotel in Utah following the assassination. McCoy leads Godspeak Calvary Chapel in Newbury Park and had flown to Utah to be with Kirk's family in the immediate aftermath of the tragedy.

"Charlie didn't die today. He began to truly live. His heart was secure in Jesus," McCoy said, reflecting on Kirk's faith and their close relationship. The pastor emphasized that while Kirk called him pastor, "I preferred to be considered his friend and his biggest fan."

Security Concerns and Death Threats

When asked whether Kirk had expressed concerns about his safety, McCoy confirmed that security was an ongoing issue. "Of course he had a security detail. He received death threats every day," the pastor revealed. McCoy went further, stating his belief that "this was obviously at least from my opinion a professional hit."

The lack of adequate security at the event shocked witnesses. "Oh my gosh, there should have been way more security. I mean, there's more security for football games," said Margie Brown, who photographed Kirk just feet away moments before the shooting.

The Partnership Behind Turning Point USA Faith

McCoy and Kirk's relationship extended beyond the pulpit. Together, they founded Turning Point USA Faith, an initiative designed to get church leaders more involved in politics. Kirk was a regular guest speaker at Godspeak Calvary Chapel, where he addressed congregants on the intersection of faith and civic engagement.

"Charlie fought vehemently even for those who were detractors. He had them come to the front of the line. He protected their freedom of speech as well," McCoy recalled, highlighting Kirk's commitment to dialogue and constitutional principles.

The Final Moments at Utah Valley University

Before Kirk took the stage for what would be his final speech, thousands filled Utah Valley's campus with excitement and anticipation. The energy was palpable as attendees gathered to hear the conservative influencer speak.

Then came the deadly gunshot. Margie Brown, positioned just feet from Kirk, witnessed the horrific scene unfold. "I saw the blood fly out and I was like, 'Oh my gosh.' Like there's no way," she recounted.

Reactions from Students and Supporters

College students from Utah to California expressed disbelief at the tragedy. Many noted Kirk's youth and the fact that he left behind two children. "He has two children. He was young. I feel like it shouldn't have gone like that," one student said.

Even those who disagreed with Kirk's politics condemned the violence. "I don't really agree with any of Charlie Kirk's political points for the most part, but I do think it was very cruel for him to be killed in that way," said one student.

Just six months prior, Kirk had held his signature debates at Cal State Northridge and USC, engaging with students across the political spectrum.

A Legacy That Will Endure

Pastor McCoy delivered a defiant message in the wake of his friend's death. "Charlie was my friend. The coward took his life today. Those who couldn't compete with logic and reason used a bullet. And today, evil thinks it won, but it didn't. They just hit a hornet's nest."

McCoy insisted that Charlie Kirk's legacy will live on through all the lives he impacted, suggesting that the assassination would only strengthen the movement Kirk helped build.