Kirk, an ally of former President Trump and a right-wing influencer, was shot dead on Sept. 10 in Utah. Before his assassination, he was engaged in a debate on gun violence with a student from Utah Valley University. This 29-year-old student, Kozak, was subsequently targeted online by right-wing groups, who labeled him a liberal and even propagated conspiracy theories suggesting that he intentionally harmed Kirk, portraying him as the shooter. Kozak stated that while he disagreed with Kirk's views, he also valued free speech and condemned any form of political violence.
On Thursday (Sept. 11), Kozak publicly spoke out to clarify his identity. In interviews with multiple media outlets, he explained that he is majoring in math education and has promoted liberal ideas on his TikTok channel, although he has a small following. Kozak mentioned that he had previously criticized Kirk, and they had debated issues regarding the rights of sexual minorities and gun ownership. However, both valued free speech. He also noted that his intention in attending Kirk's speech was to debate with him, and Kirk had openly welcomed discussions with those who held differing opinions.
Recalling the scene of the incident, Kozak said he arrived 90 minutes early and stood in line to ask Kirk a question. He remembered that as soon as Kirk began to respond, he was shot in the neck and fell down bleeding. At that moment, Kozak was only a few steps away from him and initially thought it was the sound of firecrackers. Once he realized it was gunfire, he quickly dropped to the ground.
Kozak stated that the online backlash has severely disrupted his life, and under threats from the far-right community, he has become increasingly concerned for the safety of himself and his family. Kozak has two children, and he expressed, "While I do not agree with Kirk's views, he was a living person, just like me, a father with children. His children will grow up without their father, and the shooter's actions are unforgivable."
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