Charlie Kirk, a conservative commentator and founder of Turning Point USA, was fatally shot Wednesday at an event at Utah Valley University, and police said no suspect was in custody as investigators reviewed video and sought tips.
Authorities said the shooting occurred during an appearance tied to Kirk’s “American Comeback Tour.” Law enforcement officials told reporters they had not taken anyone into custody and were continuing an active investigation into the circumstances of the attack and the identity of the shooter.
Video of the incident circulated online shortly after the shooting, showing chaotic scenes inside the venue as people reacted. Police said they were collecting evidence, reviewing video and asking anyone with information to contact investigators. Officials did not immediately provide further details about a motive or the number of people injured.
Kirk built a national profile as the founder of Turning Point USA and as a frequent cable news guest and political commentator. His “American Comeback Tour” had been promoted as a series of public appearances and speaking engagements. The fatal shooting at a college campus drew immediate attention on social media and across cable news coverage.
Some televised commentators speculated about possible motives in the hours after the attack; law enforcement cautioned that no motive had been confirmed and urged the public to await verified information. Local authorities also appealed for calm as investigators worked to piece together the timeline and identify the shooter.
The university and local police did not immediately release a comprehensive timeline of the event, and it was not clear from initial statements whether campus security or nearby law enforcement personnel engaged the suspect. Investigators said they were coordinating with other agencies as needed and continuing to canvass the scene and interview witnesses.
The shooting added to a string of high-profile attacks that have intensified scrutiny of security at public events featuring political figures. Public officials and campus leaders in other jurisdictions have in recent years weighed additional safety measures for appearances by partisan commentators and public figures.
Police asked anyone with video, photos or information about the shooting to contact the investigating agency. Updates were expected as officers continued forensic work and followed leads. News organizations and officials cautioned that details could change as the probe proceeded and urged that speculation be avoided until investigators release verified findings.
