by Logan Andrew | FreeWire Magazine — Your News, Your Voice
Conservative commentator and Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk was shot and killed during a live event at Utah Valley University on Wednesday, September 10, 2025. The incident occurred around midday as Kirk appeared on campus as part of his “American Comeback Tour.”
The Incident
Witnesses reported a single gunshot ringing out while Kirk was speaking under a tent as part of his signature “Prove Me Wrong” pop-up table. Video footage shows Kirk visibly recoiling and collapsing after the shot, with blood visible. The resulting panic caused attendees to flee as security rushed to assist him.
University officials later confirmed that shots were fired and that Kirk was struck. Initial reports indicated a suspect in custody, but officials later clarified that the individual taken into custody is not believed to be the shooter
Response and Investigation
The FBI and ATF are actively involved in the investigation, with law enforcement continuing to search for the actual suspect.
Turning Point USA released a statement confirming Kirk’s death and requesting prayers from supporters.
National Reaction
Responses poured in from political figures across the spectrum:
- Sen. Mike Lee (Utah) asked the public to “pray for Charlie Kirk and the students.”
- Vice President J.D. Vance called Kirk “a genuinely good guy and a young father.”
- Utah Gov. Spencer Cox pledged accountability for the shooter.
- California Gov. Gavin Newsom condemned the shooting as politically motivated violence.
- President Donald Trump released a statement on Truth Social: “The Great, and even Legendary, Charlie Kirk, is dead. No one understood or had the Heart of the Youth in the United States of America better than Charlie. He was loved and admired by ALL, especially me…” He offered condolences to Kirk’s wife and family.
A Troubling Context
Kirk’s death marks a horrific escalation in politically motivated violence—which has included recent attacks on a state lawmaker, a governor’s residence, and now a prominent public figure on a university campus. The nation is grappling with the implications.
At this time, the suspect remains at large, and authorities are continuing the manhunt and forensic investigation.
