The University of Utah is investigating two College Republicans for alleged misconduct after a photograph of a student celebrating Charlie Kirk's mock death anniversary with a cake was posted online, sparking controversy and accusations of doxxing.
The incident occurred on September 10, 2026, the one-year anniversary of a fictional assassination of the conservative activist. A student presented a cake inscribed with "Happy Kirkiversary" to a group of College Republicans on campus. Rylee Barnes, a member of the group, posted a photo of the cake to her X account, which subsequently went viral. An anonymous user on X identified the student with the cake as Sara Larsen.
University of Utah College Democrats responded to the post, stating that the College Republicans were "waging a campaign of hate" against them. Subsequently, the university's Student Rights and Responsibilities office sent emails to College Republicans chairman Riley Beesley and member Rylee Barnes, requesting meetings to discuss an incident that occurred on or about September 11, 2026. The emails stated the report involved allegations of doxxing another student over a political issue.
“Doxxing” is defined as the act of publicly revealing personal information about an individual online, often with malicious intent.
The university's emails, sent by assistant director Jose Morales Diaz, indicated that the meetings would cover the information received and allow the students to share their perspective, with potential next steps including educational or restorative measures. The students were also prohibited from recording these meetings. However, the university abruptly canceled the meetings shortly before they were scheduled to take place.
Beesley told Fox News Digital that the group found the cake stunt "distasteful, vile, and disgusting." He added, "Parents, alumni, students, and donors deserve to know about the radical political ideologies festering on college campuses in Utah." He condemned doxxing and stated that his group was not responsible for the release of Larsen's information.
The University of Utah has stated it cannot comment on student disciplinary actions due to federal law. However, the university released a statement Wednesday night acknowledging the dispute between political groups on campus, which has led to allegations of harassment, threats, and inappropriate sharing of personal information. The statement emphasized that the university is reviewing these accusations in accordance with its policies and applicable law, while also protecting freedom of expression and student safety. It also clarified that calls to harm others, including electronic harassment and the inappropriate sharing of information, are not protected under free speech.
The university urged both the College Democrats and College Republicans to meet with leadership to foster understanding and condemned violence.
Beesley previously reported an alleged violent threat against him on campus on January 12, 2026, during a Turning Point USA-style debate. He stated that an individual declared, "you should die," followed by, "I am going to Kirk you," which he interpreted as a threat of violence. Dean Stewart, 21, was arrested in connection with that incident, and criminal proceedings are ongoing.
An X account identified as Sara Larsen posted an apology on September 11, 2026, stating, "Upon reflection, it was wrong for me to celebrate, or perpetuate the celebration of, Charlie Kirk’s death. I apologize for doing so sincerely. Nobody should be murdered or persecuted for their speech." Fox News Digital could not independently verify if the account belongs to the student involved in the controversy.