Utah Valley University, Orem, UT – Charlie Kirk, a prominent conservative activist and CEO of Turning Point USA, has died after being shot in the neck during a campus event.
The incident occurred around 12:10 p.m. local time on Wednesday, September 10, 2025.
According to eyewitnesses, Kirk was speaking at an outdoor Q&A session with students when a single shot was fired from approximately 200 yards away, striking him in the neck. Video footage of the incident shows Kirk being rushed offstage by his security team.
The shot was likely fired from the Losee Center building on campus, and multiple cellphone videos of the shooting were published on social media.
A suspect is currently at large, as a man initially detained was released after being determined not to be the shooter.
University officials closed the campus, canceled classes, and instructed students and staff to evacuate while police and federal agents responded. The FBI and ATF are assisting in the investigation.
Kirk’s death sparked widespread shock and grief, with politicians from both parties condemning the act of violence.
President Donald Trump announced Kirk’s death on Truth Social, stating, “Political violence must be called out… We need everyone who has a platform to say this loudly and clearly: We can settle disagreements and disputes in a civil manner.”
Other notable figures, including Kamala Harris, Gavin Newsom, and Mike Pence, also paid tribute to Kirk, with many offering prayers for his family.
Kirk was known for touring college campuses across the US, sharing his conservative views through Turning Point USA, which he co-founded in 2012.
He leaves behind his wife, Erika Frantzve, and two children. Utah Governor Spencer Cox and House Speaker Mike Johnson were among those who condemned the violence and offered condolences to Kirk’s family.