Charlie Kirk Shot During Utah Event, Suspect in Custody

Charlie Kirk Shot During Utah Event, Suspect in Custody

OREM, Utah — Conservative activist and Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk was shot Wednesday while speaking at Utah Valley University, according to multiple reports and eyewitness videos shared online.

The incident occurred during the first stop of Kirk’s resumed “American Comeback Tour.” University officials issued a campus alert confirming that a single shot was fired at a visiting speaker, with the suspect taken into custody shortly afterward.

Fox News reported that Kirk, 31, was hospitalized following the shooting. His condition has not been officially released.

Reaction was swift from political leaders. Utah Senator Mike Lee urged prayers for Kirk and the students in attendance, while Vice President JD Vance described him as “a genuinely good guy and a young father.”

Just minutes before the incident, Kirk’s team posted on social media that Utah Valley University was “fired up and ready” for his tour’s opening event. The program, held in a public amphitheater, had already drawn debate on campus, with some students voicing opposition to his appearance.

Video circulating online captured the chaos as the shot rang out, sending dozens fleeing the area.

Kirk is widely known as a vocal supporter of former President Donald Trump and for founding Turning Point USA, a group that promotes conservative causes on college campuses. While praised by young Republicans, he has also sparked criticism for pushing election fraud claims and amplifying unverified COVID-19 theories.

The investigation remains active, with no further details released about the suspect or motive.