A neuroscientist has shed light on the harrowing final moments of Charlie Kirk’s life, explaining why Kirk likely never realized he had been fatally shot. The incident occurred during a Turning Point USA event at Utah Valley University on September 10, 2025, when Kirk was struck by a single bullet to the neck.
Kirk collapsed immediately after the shot, with security footage showing blood pouring from the wound. Experts identified the weapon as a .30-06 Mauser Model 98, fired from 150 yards away by a bolt-action rifle—considered a relatively straightforward shot, even for a novice shooter.
Neuropsychologist Derek Van Schaik analyzed video footage and explained that due to the catastrophic nature of the bullet severing major arteries and veins, Kirk’s brain would have had only a fraction of a second—no more than four-tenths—of consciousness. This brief window was far too short for his brain to register what had happened.
Pain signals from the neck can travel in just 100 milliseconds, but Kirk lost consciousness too quickly to perceive pain or understand the injury. Van Schaik described Kirk’s reaction, raising his arms seemingly toward his neck, as an involuntary defensive reflex rather than purposeful movement.
FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed that DNA evidence linked suspect Tyler Robinson to a rifle and screwdriver found at the scene. Robinson, 22, was arrested days after the shooting after being convinced by his father to surrender.
While the motive remains unclear, investigators have interviewed Robinson’s live-in partner, who is transitioning from male to female. The case remains under intense investigation, with significant public attention.
Despite the tragedy, experts stress the importance of understanding the neurological processes involved, highlighting that Kirk likely had no awareness of the fatal wound in his final moments.
