Charlie Kirk, a conservative activist and co-founder of Turning Point USA, was shot and killed Wednesday during a speaking event at Utah Valley University, university officials and public statements confirmed.
President Donald Trump announced Kirk’s death in a social media post Wednesday evening, and members of the Trump family and other public figures offered condolences. Kai Trump, the president’s granddaughter, called Kirk a “close family friend” in an Instagram Story post and said her “heart goes out to his wife Erika and their two children.”
In a post at 4:40 p.m. Eastern, President Trump wrote: “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, and now, he is no longer with us. Melania and my Sympathies go out to his beautiful wife Erika, and family. Charlie, we love you!”
Ellen Treanor, associate vice president for strategic communication management at Utah Valley University, said the shooting occurred at about 12:20 p.m. local time. The university sent a campus-wide alert stating, “A single shot was fired on campus toward a visiting speaker. Police are investigating now.” Video posted from the event appeared to show a person being shot while speaking to a crowd from under a white pop-up tent, authorities and media outlets reported.
Kirk was on an “American Comeback Tour” and had been scheduled to appear at Utah State University later this month. He founded Turning Point USA, a conservative nonprofit that has advocated for conservative politics on college campuses and in media. Kirk rose to prominence in conservative circles as a notably vocal advocate for younger conservative voters.
Several public figures in sports and media expressed shock and sorrow. Former NFL quarterback Tim Tebow said on X that he was “shocked and devastated” and described Kirk as “a follower of Jesus, a husband, and a dad.” Former NFL quarterback Brett Favre wrote, “I’m at a loss for words. Only thing I can think of is tragic. Please keep Charlie Kirk and his family in your prayers.” Other athletes and public figures offered condolences on social media.
Police and university officials said they were investigating the incident. Utah Valley University’s initial alert did not identify a suspect or provide further details about motive. Local law enforcement agencies have jurisdiction over the investigation; officials have not released a timeline for when they expect to provide additional information.
Kirk’s role as a prominent conservative organizer and media personality made his death a focal point for immediate reaction across political and public spheres. His organization, public appearances and commentary had made him a recognizable figure in Republican and conservative activist networks. Authorities, university officials and members of the public called for privacy and expressed sympathy for his family as the investigation continues.