Charlie Kirk Shot At Utah Valley University Event, Suspect In Custody
Conservative activist Charlie Kirk was shot on Wednesday afternoon while speaking at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah, in what officials are calling a targeted attack.
University spokeswoman Ellen Treanor confirmed that a single shot was fired at Kirk roughly 20 minutes into his appearance, striking him as he addressed students and community members.
Cellphone footage circulating online appears to show Kirk jerk backward as a bullet hit him in the neck, before collapsing to the ground. His current condition is unknown.
Treanor said the shooter, who was positioned in the Losee Center building about 200 yards away from the stage, was not a student.
The suspect has been apprehended and taken into custody. Kirk’s security team immediately rushed him from the scene.
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Videos shared on social media captured the sound of gunfire and the ensuing panic as audience members fled. The event was hosted under a tent bearing the slogan “The American Comeback.”
The attack has triggered a swift federal response. FBI Director Kash Patel said the bureau was “closely monitoring reports of the tragic shooting” and dispatched agents to assist local authorities. Attorney General Pam Bondi confirmed that the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives had also been sent to the scene.
At the White House, news of the shooting sparked shock among staffers. President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social: “We must all pray for Charlie Kirk, who has been shot. A great guy from top to bottom. GOD BLESS HIM!” Vice President JD Vance added: “Say a prayer for Charlie Kirk, a genuinely good guy and a young father.”
Charlie Kirk, 31, is the founder of Turning Point USA, one of the most prominent conservative youth organisations in the United States. A staunch Trump ally, he has amassed millions of followers online and frequently tours college campuses holding combative debates with opponents.
Utah Valley University confirmed that a police investigation is ongoing and that the campus remains secure. Officials reiterated that only one shot was fired and there is no continued threat to the public.
As of late Wednesday, Kirk’s condition remained unclear.
This is a developing story
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