Charlie Kirk, a conservative activist and founder of Turning Point USA, was fatally shot at Utah Valley University, authorities said, prompting an active investigation by local police and the FBI and sparking a wave of public condolences from political figures and supporters.
Law enforcement officials said a man was killed on campus and that a person of interest who was briefly detained has since been released as investigators continue to search for the suspected shooter, who remained at large, according to media reports. The FBI has joined the probe, and police urged anyone with information to come forward.
Former first lady Melania Trump posted a message mourning Kirk and extending sympathy to his children, according to the post widely shared on social media. Other public figures and conservative commentators also issued statements of condolence as the investigation unfolded.
Witnesses described chaotic scenes at the campus, with bystanders and students expressing shock and fear as first responders arrived. Local media accounts cited mortified onlookers who recounted hearing gunfire and seeing people run for cover. Police have not released a suspect description and asked the public to avoid spreading unverified footage and speculation while the investigation proceeds.
Erika Frantzve, identified in media reports as Kirk’s wife and a former Miss Arizona, was mentioned in several public posts and profiles as family members grappled with the aftermath of the killing.
Video clips circulating on social platforms and shared with news outlets prompted additional scrutiny of the incident. Some clips were described as showing a person on a rooftop near the scene in the moments before and after the shooting, though law enforcement officials cautioned that footage circulating online had not been verified publicly and urged caution in drawing conclusions from unconfirmed posts.
Authorities have provided limited public detail as they piece together a timeline. Police said investigators are canvassing the area, reviewing video, and interviewing witnesses. No motive has been announced. Officials also noted that the release of an initially detained person of interest indicates that investigators are still narrowing leads rather than making formal accusations.
Kirk was a prominent figure in conservative politics and media, known for founding and leading Turning Point USA, a group that organizes on college campuses. His death prompted immediate reactions from political circles and raised questions about security at public events and on campuses.
University officials temporarily locked down portions of the campus, then reopened facilities as police cleared areas and secured the scene, according to statements reported by local outlets. Counseling services and crisis support were made available to students, staff and others affected by the incident.
The investigation remains active. Law enforcement officials asked anyone with information, video or tips to contact the local police department or the FBI tip line. As authorities continue their work, they emphasized that speculative reporting or the circulation of unverified material can hinder investigative efforts and cause additional distress to victims' families.