Charlie Kirk, 31, was fatally shot in the neck while speaking at Utah Valley University on September 10. Over 3,000 people attended the rally when the attack happened. Despite being rushed to the hospital, Donald Trump later confirmed his death on Truth Social.

The suspect, 22-year-old Tyler Robinson, was arrested on charges including aggravated murder and obstruction of justice. Videos of the shooting quickly spread online, showing Kirk collapsing after being hit.

Footage has since been analyzed by neuropsychologist Derek Van Schaik, who explained Kirk’s final moments. “Many have speculated his arms moving upward towards his chest is due to a phenomenon known in forensic science as decorticate posturing,” he said, but added, “that’s unlikely.”

Instead, Van Schaik said Kirk’s reaction was “an instant involuntary defensive reflex,” comparing it to a fear response. He explained, “After analyzing the footage with a digital timer, he was conscious for no more than four tenths of a second after impact. Far too fast for his brain to even register what had happened to him.”

The expert concluded that Kirk experienced “no panic, no dread… only an abrupt blackout,” stressing, “He absolutely did not know he was shot.”