Conservative Activist Charlie Kirk Fatally Shot at Utah Valley University
Charlie Kirk, the conservative activist and co-founder of Turning Point USA, was fatally shot on Wednesday while speaking at Utah Valley University (UVU) in Orem, Utah. The shooting occurred during a campus event connected to Kirk’s “American Comeback Tour.”
According to eyewitness reports and campus officials, Kirk was answering audience questions beneath a tent when a single bullet struck him in the neck. He collapsed at the podium and emergency response unfolded immediately as attendees sought cover.
Initial reports from the university and local media said a person was briefly detained but later cleared; authorities now say no suspect is in custody. The investigation is being led by a coalition of agencies including Orem Police, UVU Police, the FBI and state public safety investigators.
What witnesses described
Reporters and attendees described a chaotic scene as the gunfire rang out. Several eyewitnesses said the shooter appeared to have fired from a building located roughly 200 yards from the outdoor stage, which prompted students and guests to immediately drop to the ground and attempt to flee the area.
Local journalists at the event reported that Kirk was responding to a question about mass shootings when the gunshot struck him. Witnesses described visible bleeding and rapid efforts by bystanders and campus security to administer aid and clear the area.
Official response and high-profile reactions
Turning Point USA released an internal message confirming Kirk’s death and announcing a temporary pause of organizational activities. In the hours after the shooting, former President Donald Trump and other national figures expressed condolences and called for justice. Utah Governor Spencer Cox said state and federal authorities were coordinating to locate the person responsible.
Other political leaders offered prayers and condemnation of the attack. The event has since drawn renewed attention to threats and violence against public figures and to safety protocols at campus events.
Context and implications
Kirk founded Turning Point USA in 2012 and rose to national prominence as a leading conservative voice focused on youth outreach and campus engagement. He was widely recognized within right-leaning circles for campus debates and youth mobilization efforts.
The fatal shooting at UVU adds to a troubling pattern of politically charged violence directed at public figures and gatherings. Investigators are continuing to interview witnesses, review video footage, and process forensic evidence as they search for the shooter.
What’s next
Law enforcement has asked anyone with video or relevant information to come forward. As the investigation continues, campus safety officials have kept UVU on restricted status and emphasized the need for calm while agencies pursue leads.