Conservative activist and Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk was shot Wednesday afternoon while speaking at an outdoor event at Utah Valley University, according to multiple eyewitness reports and university officials.
Kirk was addressing a crowd as part of his “American Comeback Tour” when a single gunshot rang out near the food court area. Video footage circulating online shows Kirk recoiling and slumping in his seat, with visible injuries to his neck. The crowd quickly dispersed in panic as emergency personnel rushed to the scene.
A suspect is in custody, and the university has since closed the campus for the remainder of the day. Authorities have not yet released the identity of the shooter or a motive behind the attack.
As of this report, Kirk’s condition remains unknown, though sources close to the event say he was immediately transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. The FBI has confirmed it is monitoring the situation, and agents are assisting in the investigation.
Public figures including President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance have expressed support and prayers for Kirk and his family. “Please pray for Charlie Kirk and his family,” Trump posted on Truth Social. “A great guy from top to bottom. GOD BLESS HIM!”
Kirk, 31, is a prominent figure in conservative politics and a frequent speaker on college campuses. His organization, Turning Point USA, has a presence on thousands of high school and college campuses nationwide.
This is a developing story. The Edgewater Gazette will continue to follow updates as they become available.
UPDATE: Charlie Kirk Dies After Utah Valley University Shooting
Conservative activist and Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk has died following the shooting that occurred Wednesday afternoon at Utah Valley University, according to multiple sources and confirmation from his organization2.
Kirk was speaking at an outdoor event as part of his “American Comeback Tour” when a single gunshot rang out near the food court area. Video footage showed Kirk recoiling and slumping in his seat, with visible injuries to his neck. He was immediately transported to a nearby hospital, but later succumbed to his injuries2.
Initial reports stated that a suspect was in custody, but law enforcement later clarified that no one is currently in custody, and the shooter remains unidentified2. The FBI continues to assist in the investigation.
President Donald Trump confirmed Kirk’s death in a statement on Truth Social, calling him “The Great, and even Legendary, Charlie Kirk,” and ordered all American flags to be flown at half-staff until Sunday evening in his honor2. Tributes have poured in from across the political spectrum, with leaders condemning the violence and expressing condolences to Kirk’s family.
Kirk, 31, was a prominent figure in conservative politics, known for founding Turning Point USA, a youth-focused organization with a presence on thousands of campuses nationwide. He was also a radio host and served on the U.S. Air Force Academy Board of Visitors.
This remains a developing story. The Edgewater Gazette will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.
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