Charlie Kirk Killed in Shooting at Utah Valley University Event

FBI confirms suspect in custody after fatal attack on conservative activist.

Sep 10, 2025

Charlie Kirk, conservative activist and founder of Turning Point USA, was shot and killed Wednesday during a campus event at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah.

President Donald Trump confirmed Kirk’s death on Truth Social, calling him “great, and even legendary,” and extending condolences to Kirk’s wife, Erika, and their family. Vice President J.D. Vance and Utah Senator Mike Lee also issued statements of sympathy.

Authorities said the shooting occurred around 12:20 p.m. during Kirk’s “American Comeback Tour” appearance. The FBI confirmed a suspect is in custody, with Director Kash Patel praising coordination with Utah officials. Utah Governor Spencer Cox said the individual is being interviewed.

University officials closed the campus and canceled classes, instructing students to shelter until escorted out by police. Utah Valley University, the state’s largest public university, said law enforcement is conducting a building-by-building sweep.

Kirk, 31, was transported to a local hospital in critical condition and later pronounced dead, according to law enforcement. A leading figure in conservative youth politics, he was married with two young children.