Conservative commentator and Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk was shot during a speaking event at Utah Valley University (UVU) in Orem, Utah. The incident occurred shortly after noon, and authorities have confirmed that a suspect is now in custody. Kirk’s condition remains unknown.
Campus police posted a statement on X (formerly Twitter) at 12:26 a.m. local time, confirming that a single shot was fired at Kirk during his appearance. "Today at about 12:10, a shot was fired at the visiting speaker, Charlie Kirk. He was hit and taken from the location by his security. Campus police is investigating, a suspect is in custody,” the statement read.
Scott Trotter, a senior public relations official at UVU, told the BBC that the shot rang out in the campus quad near the food court, moments after Kirk began speaking at a scheduled rally. He added that the campus was subsequently closed for the remainder of the day.
Videos circulating on social media, which have been verified by BBC Verify, captured the chaotic scene. In one clip, Kirk is seen addressing students beneath a white tent marked with “THE AMERICAN COMEBACK” and “PROVE ME WRONG.” A loud bang interrupts the event, prompting the crowd to panic and flee. Witnesses reported widespread confusion, with one attendee telling Fox News that “everyone hit the deck” and that “the shot came straight at him.”
The FBI confirmed it is monitoring the situation closely and that agents are responding to the scene. “Our thoughts are with Charlie, his loved ones, and everyone affected,” FBI Director Kash Patel posted on X.
Reactions poured in from public figures and political leaders. President Donald Trump called for prayers, writing on Truth Social, “We must all pray for Charlie Kirk, who has been shot.” Vice President J.D. Vance echoed the sentiment, calling Kirk “a genuinely good guy and a young father.” California Governor Gavin Newsom condemned the attack, urging Americans to reject political violence “in every form.”
Say a prayer for Charlie Kirk, a genuinely good guy and a young father.
— JD Vance (@JDVance) September 10, 2025
Kirk, 31, is known for his vocal support of Trump and leadership of Turning Point USA, a conservative youth organization. He has built a large social media following while remaining a polarizing figure due to his controversial views on vaccines, elections, and climate change.
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