A “suspicious device” was detonated by law enforcement at Utah State University on Tuesday afternoon, just hours before the campus was set to host a Turning Point USA event featuring several high-profile conservative speakers.
The incident occurred against the backdrop of heightened security concerns following the assassination of the organization’s founder, Charlie Kirk, earlier in September.
The university confirmed in a statement that the object was found outside Old Main, one of the most recognizable buildings on campus.
Officials described it as a “suspicious device” that was later deemed nonexplosive, but law enforcement chose to detonate it as a safety precaution.
The statement read: “A suspicious device was found near the exterior of Old Main. University and local law enforcement were dispatched to the scene. A device was located and deemed to be a nonexplosive device.”
“Out of an abundance of caution, the bomb squad detonated the suspicious device. Old Main building is now clear and safe. All scheduled events may resume as normal.”
Video obtained by Fox News captured law enforcement handling the scene.
In the footage, someone is heard shouting “fire in the hole” immediately before a controlled detonation resulted in a loud explosion.
Utah State University Executive Director of Public Safety Ellis Bruch said the device came to authorities’ attention when a campus employee observed someone placing it under a tree near Old Main.
The employee, believing it to be suspicious, notified law enforcement.
Bruch added that a K-9 unit gave what he described as “a bit of an indication” when brought to the object, leading the bomb squad to intervene.
The item was safely detonated, and no injuries were reported as a result of the operation.
The discovery happened just hours before a major Turning Point USA event scheduled for Tuesday evening.
Fox News reported that the Utah State University chapter of the conservative organization was hosting Alex Clark, Sen. Mike Lee (R-UT), Utah Governor Spencer Cox, Rep. Andy Biggs (R-AZ) and former Congressman Jason Chaffetz.
The event is the first Turning Point USA gathering in the state since the assassination of the group’s founder, Charlie Kirk, on Sept. 10.
Kirk was killed during an appearance at Utah Valley University.
Authorities have charged Tyler Robinson in connection with Kirk’s killing.
Robinson faces charges of aggravated murder, two counts of obstruction of justice, felony discharge of a firearm causing serious bodily injury, two counts of witness tampering and committing a violent offense in the presence of a child.
Given the significance of Tuesday night’s TPUSA event, Utah State University confirmed it had implemented heightened security protocols.
Officials stated that security would operate in a manner similar to procedures at athletic events, with an emphasis on safeguarding both participants and guest speakers.
According to the university, all attendees must pass through magnetometers before entering the venue.
Firearms are permitted under Utah law only for those with a valid conceal-carry permit.
Restrictions on personal belongings were also announced.
Backpacks and bags larger than 6.5 by 4.5 inches are prohibited.
Small purses or clutches within that size limit are allowed but subject to inspection.
In addition, Fox News highlighted that officials confirmed that no outside signs will be permitted inside the venue, and re-entry will not be allowed once an attendee leaves.
“Given the heightened concerns, USU’s department of public safety is continuing to collaborate with these partners to ensure appropriate safety measures and protocols are in place,” the university explained in its statement.
