Shots were fired Wednesday during a Charlie Kirk event at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah, according to footage from the scene and social media posts from attendees.
Video shared online showed people screaming as gunfire rang out while Kirk, a conservative commentator, was conducting a question-and-answer session with students. Kirk posted to X minutes before reports of the shooting began, writing, "WE. ARE. SO. BACK," and saying, "Utah Valley University is FIRED UP and READY for the first stop back on the American Comeback Tour."
Initial reports did not immediately indicate whether anyone was injured or whether anyone had been detained. Authorities were reported to be responding to the scene; officials did not immediately release further details about the number of shots fired or a suspect description.
Republican Sen. Mike Lee of Utah said he was "tracking the situation at Utah Valley University closely" and asked people to pray for Kirk and the students gathered there. Conservative commentators Candace Owens and Michael Knowles also posted appeals for prayer following the shooting.
The appearance was part of a series of campus events and the social-media post by Kirk indicated the event was billed as the first stop of an "American Comeback Tour." Attendees and witnesses posted video and comments to social platforms as the incident unfolded, and news outlets shared footage showing people fleeing and seeking cover in response to the gunfire.
Police and university officials often release additional information as investigations proceed. At this time, law enforcement statements with verified details about injuries, arrests or motive were not available publicly. The university did not immediately provide a statement to confirm specifics about the incident.
The disruption adds to a series of high-profile security incidents at political and public events in recent years, leading institutions and event organizers to review safety protocols. Investigations into shootings at public gatherings typically involve coordinated efforts between campus police, local law enforcement and, when appropriate, state or federal agencies.
This story is developing, and officials may provide updates as authorities continue to gather and verify information.