Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk dies after being shot at Utah campus event
UPDATE, 4:49pm:President Trump has announced the death of Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk after he was shot during an event at Utah Valley University. The suspect is still at large, according to the Associated Press.
UPDATE, 4:31pm: Despite earlier reports that the suspect had been detained, UVU spokesperson Scott Trotter said in a statement, “We can confirm that Mr. Kirk was shot, but we don’t know his condition. The suspect is not in custody."
9/10/2025: Conservative author and activist Charlie Kirk, 31, who founded Turning Point USA, has been shot at a campus Q&A event at Utah Valley University.
News reports indicate that Kirk is married with two young children. His condition is currently unknown, but he is hospitalized. A suspect, described by Deseret News as "an older man" is in custody.
Fox News reports, "In a campus-wide alert, Utah Valley University said that: 'A single shot was fired on campus toward a visiting speaker. Police are investigating now.'" The outlet added, "Kirk had been scheduled to appear at Utah Valley University on Wednesday as part of his American Comeback Tour, with another stop at Utah State University later this month. His appearances have drawn protests and petitions from student groups critical of his views."
Responses from media and government officials have quickly poured in.
FBI Director Kash Patel stated on X, "We are closely monitoring reports of the tragic shooting involving Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University. Our thoughts are with Charlie, his loved ones, and everyone affected. Agents will be on the scene quickly and the FBI stands in full support of the ongoing response and investigation."
President Trump posted to X asking for prayers for Kirk.
Video of the shooting is distressing; a large crowd was present on the campus, located in Provo, Utah, and immediately began to disperse. It appears that Kirk was shot in the neck.
A witness told Nicole Parker, a former FBI special agent who appeared on Fox News, that he estimated there were 300-400 people, and he heard a gunshot and saw that Kirk had been shot in the throat.
Kirk is known for hosting on-campus Q&A "Prove Me Wrong" discussions, frequently touring the country and inviting open discussion with college students, respectfully dialoguing with even detractors about his conservative and Christian views about abortion and other conservative issues.
Live Action News will continue to update as more information is released.
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