Charlie Kirk fatally shot during event at Utah Valley University

This story is ongoing and is being updated as The New Political receives additional information.

Today at 12:25 pm MDT (3:25 EST), Turning Point USA Founder Charlie Kirk was shot. Witnesses heard shots fired from a building nearby, according to a spokesperson for Utah Valley University in a statement obtained by NBC. Kirk was the only person shot at the event. 

The event was for Turning Point USA’s “American Comeback Tour.” Videos posted across various social media platforms show Kirk physically recoiling or flinching before slumping down in his seat. Blood is seen flowing from his neck onto his shoulders and the rest of his body. The crowd panics and starts to run away from the scene. 

The shooter has not been arrested, despite previous statements from Utah Valley University and the police stating otherwise. Additionally, a suspect was arrested and then released. President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance have both condemned the attack via the social media platform X. President Trump wrote, “We must all pray for Charlie Kirk, who has been shot. A great guy from top to bottom. GOD BLESS HIM!” 

Roughly an hour and a half later, Kirk was confirmed dead via another post from Trump. 

Charlie Kirk was a conservative activist and influencer known for visiting colleges and universities across America to engage in political debates with students. Turning Point USA has worked closely with the current White House administration, both providing resources and helping Trump’s presidential campaign engage with voters. Kirk was married with two children. 

Utah Valley University has cancelled classes and is asking students to leave the campus via a post on X. “Campus is closed,” the post reads. “Classes are canceled until further notice. Police are investigating. Leave campus immediately. Follow police instructions.” 

Update: At 6:45 p.m. EST, AP reported that a suspect is in custody, according to FBI Director Kash Patel.

Update: At 7:59 p.m. EST, Patel posted on X: “The subject in custody has been released after an interrogation by law enforcement. Our investigation continues and we will continue to release information in interest of transparency".

This is a developing story and will be updated as The New Political receives more information.