The assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University has shocked the nation, with investigations into the shooter still underway. But in the midst of mourning and chaos, another moment from the scene has stirred public outrage: a video showing an individual apparently stealing hats from a merchandise table near where Kirk was shot.

According to multiple eyewitness reports and social media footage, the incident occurred shortly after the shooting, when many attendees were still reeling from the shock. In the video, which has gone viral on platforms like TikTok and X (formerly Twitter), an unidentified person is seen approaching the table where Kirk had earlier distributed baseball caps, grabbing several items, and fleeing the area. Off-camera, someone is heard saying, “Grab me a hat,” while others shout in disbelief.

Security quickly intervened, escorting the individual away from the crime scene. The video, originally posted by a TikTok user, was later reposted by several conservative commentators and news outlets, triggering swift condemnation. Many have described the act as disrespectful and opportunistic, especially considering the emotional weight of the moment and the presence of traumatized students nearby.

“It’s hard to imagine how someone could be so thoughtless,” one witness posted on social media. “People were crying, hiding, calling their families—and this guy is stealing hats?” The backlash has prompted calls for law enforcement to identify and potentially charge the individual involved, although police have not commented publicly on whether the theft is being investigated.

The context makes the incident even more troubling. Moments before the shooting, Kirk had been handing out those very hats to attendees as part of his outreach to students. For many, the caps symbolized more than just merchandise—they represented Kirk’s message, his mission, and the memory of his final moments. That someone would exploit the tragedy to steal from the scene has struck a nerve.

While the main focus of authorities remains on tracking down the person responsible for Kirk’s assassination, the hat-theft incident serves as a reminder of how chaos can bring out both the best and worst in people. As tributes continue to pour in for Kirk, the nation watches not only for justice in his killing but also for accountability in every act surrounding that dark day.