The tragic shooting of Charlie Kirk in Orem, Utah, highlighted certain vulnerabilities that extend far beyond politics. CEOs, executives, celebrities, entertainers, and other high-profile individuals all face elevated risks whenever they appear before an audience.

Common Vulnerabilities

• Line-of-Sight Exposure: Rooftops, balconies, and other elevated areas can be exploited at both indoor and outdoor venues.
• Predictability: Published schedules and recurring events create opportunity windows.
• Symbolic Value: High-profile individuals represent more than themselves—they are symbolic targets for grievances and ideology.

Best Practices

• Layered Defense: From close protection to access control, detection technology, and overwatch elements.
• Copycat Risk Mitigation: Clear, fact-based communication after incidents reduces glorification.
• Event-Specific Security: Earnings calls, celebrity appearances, or shareholder meetings each carry their own unique risk profiles.
• Balance Access & Safety: Leaders must remain visible to stakeholders and communities, but without unnecessary exposure and vulnerabilities.
• Rapid Response Protocols: Drills, evacuation routes, and medical readiness save lives.

At DSS, our REACT framework—Review, Evaluate, Analyze, Correct, Train—ensures protective services are tailored to each client. Intelligence-driven assessments(Sanfilippo) combined with tactical protective expertise (Manghisi) give DSS a dual-lens approach.

High-profile figures will always remain attractive targets. Raising the standard of executive and celebrity protection strengthens not only personal safety, but also public trust in the institutions they represent.