The United States is on edge following the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk at a university in Utah, prompting heightened security across the country. President Donald Trump’s teams relocated his 9/11 commemoration speech and are increasing protection measures at a planned baseball game in New York.
Several universities were placed on lockdown after receiving anonymous threats. At least one high-profile political figure announced plans to carry firearms, reflecting rising concerns about public safety. Authorities continue to search for Kirk’s shooter, contributing to nationwide unease.
Trump’s remarks at the Pentagon, one of the attack sites 24 years ago, were moved from a public space to an interior courtyard “out of an abundance of caution,” officials said. Security at Yankee Stadium, where Trump will attend a game, has also been intensified, with fans advised to arrive early to allow for additional screening.
In Washington DC, the Democratic National Committee headquarters received a bomb threat, triggering a police search. Authorities determined the threat was not credible. Similarly, New York Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez canceled an event in North Carolina citing security concerns, while conservative commentator Ben Shapiro withdrew from a scheduled appearance outside Los Angeles.
Republican Congresswoman Nancy Mace, who is running for governor in South Carolina, said she would pause public appearances due to safety concerns and plans to carry a firearm wherever legally permitted.
Security measures also extended to military facilities. The US Naval Academy in Maryland went on lockdown Thursday evening after an unconfirmed threat prompted sailors to shelter in place.
Several historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) across the South received threatening messages, forcing temporary lockdowns. Southern University and A&M College in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and Virginia State University in Chesterfield, Virginia, required students and staff to remain indoors until cleared by law enforcement. Alabama State University in Montgomery canceled activities and allowed people to leave their buildings only after police secured the campus. Hampton University in Virginia ceased non-essential activities for two days as a precaution and encouraged remote meetings.
Hoax threats also prompted a large police response at the University of Massachusetts in Boston, though officials confirmed no incident had occurred. Classes and activities were canceled while the campus was cleared.
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries said the threats and attacks highlight the rise of extremism in the United States. “These attempts to intimidate everyday Americans will not stand. We need leadership at this moment that brings the country together,” he stated.
The Kirk shooting and subsequent threats have intensified security across public and private spaces, raising awareness about political violence and extremism in the United States. Authorities continue to investigate, urging vigilance while ensuring the safety of communities nationwide.
