Charlie Kirk, the founder of Turning Point USA, was shot Wednesday while speaking at an event at Utah Valley University in Orem, officials and witnesses said. A suspect was detained at the scene and Kirk was taken to a hospital; his condition was described as unknown by his spokesperson.
The incident occurred during a Q&A session that was part of Kirk’s "American Comeback Tour." Video circulating on social media showed Kirk suddenly jerk back and appear to grab at his neck as shots rang out, prompting attendees to flee. An alert sent to the campus community said a person was in custody and the university was placed on lockdown as law enforcement responded.
Kirk’s spokesperson posted that "Charlie Kirk has been shot at Utah Valley University. Condition unknown." Witnesses and multiple news outlets reported he appeared to have been struck in the neck area, though officials did not immediately confirm the specific location of any injury or provide further medical details.
Orem police said they could not immediately release further information but that investigators and other agencies were on scene. FBI Director Kash Patel said the bureau was "closely monitoring reports of the tragic shooting" and that agents would be on site to support the ongoing response and investigation. Local law enforcement and campus officials advised students and staff to shelter in place until the situation was secured.
The shooting drew rapid responses from political figures across the spectrum. Former President Donald Trump wrote 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 J.D. Vance posted that he was saying a prayer for Kirk. California Gov. Gavin Newsom called the attack "disgusting, vile, and reprehensible," and urged rejection of political violence "in EVERY form."
Kirk, 31, founded Turning Point USA, a conservative youth organization, and has become a prominent conservative commentator and organizer. His campus appearances have frequently attracted protests and petitions from student groups critical of his politics. Organizers had listed additional tour dates at other Utah campuses later this month.
Footage of the incident circulated widely on social media shortly after the shots were fired. Kirk had posted on X just minutes before the event, writing, "WE. ARE. SO. BACK," and announcing the Utah appearance as the first stop on his comeback tour.
Investigators in Orem said the inquiry was ongoing and asked anyone with information or video of the shooting to come forward. Authorities did not immediately release the identity of the person detained or say whether charges had been filed. The university and local law enforcement said additional updates would be provided as they became available.
The FBI and local investigators said they were coordinating on evidence collection and witness interviews. Officials warned the public that details could change as the investigation proceeds and asked media and the public to rely on official statements for confirmed information.