Conservative activist Charlie Kirk was shot dead while addressing an outdoor event at Utah Valley University (UVU) in Orem, Utah, on 10 September.
Investigators say a single round struck Mr Kirk, 31, in the neck as he spoke to a crowd of several thousand; officials believe the shot came from an elevated position on or near a campus building. Federal and state agencies are leading a manhunt; as of this morning no suspect had been charged.
Authorities recovered what they described as a high-powered, bolt-action rifle and are analysing extensive video footage from the campus and surrounding area. Two people detained shortly after the shooting were later released, amid initially conflicting statements from officials about whether anyone remained in custody.
Witness accounts and early police briefings indicate the gunman fired from a rooftop overlooking the UVU courtyard where Mr Kirk’s campus stop—part of his “American Comeback Tour”—was taking place. Estimates of the distance vary in early reports, but investigators have focused on the roof of the Losee Center; enhanced footage appears to show a person running across that roof moments after the shot.
Mr Kirk co-founded Turning Point USA in 2012 and was a high-profile figure on the American right, credited by allies with helping mobilise younger voters. He was married with two children. His death drew immediate reactions across the political spectrum in Washington and from abroad. President Donald Trump announced the news on his social-media platform and praised Mr Kirk’s influence; Israeli leaders, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, offered condolences and highlighted Mr Kirk’s public support for Israel.
Utah’s Governor, Spencer Cox, called the killing a “political assassination”. Federal agencies, including the FBI, said they were working with state and local partners and appealed for public tips, photos and video. UVU closed parts of the campus as forensic work continued.
The attack occurred as Mr Kirk fielded questions on gun violence. Cellphone video captured the scene as a single crack rang out, the crowd scattered and first-aid efforts began under a tent bearing his tour branding. Officials said roughly 3,000 people were present.
Mr Kirk’s campus appearances had frequently drawn protests and calls for cancellation, but the university said it would uphold free-speech commitments and had coordinated security with event organisers. A petition to bar the event circulated ahead of the visit; security screening at the outdoor venue was limited, according to local reports.
The killing has intensified an already heated debate about political violence in the United States. Reuters analysis cited about 150 politically motivated attacks in the first half of 2025—nearly double the same period a year earlier—amid warnings from researchers that the country could enter a “vicious spiral” of retaliatory incidents. Leaders in both parties condemned the Utah shooting; Democrats renewed calls for stricter gun laws while Republicans criticised political rhetoric they say fosters hostility.
Investigators have not publicly identified a motive. Early briefings emphasised that the shot appeared targeted and fired from a distance; officials asked the public to avoid speculation as they review surveillance images and social-media video. Police urged anyone who was in the UVU courtyard or adjacent buildings around 12:20 p.m. local time on 10 September to submit footage to an FBI portal.
Turning Point USA described Mr Kirk as a central figure in its campus network and media operation. Profiles published overnight traced his rise from Illinois to national prominence through activism, broadcasting and close alignment with Mr Trump’s campaigns. Obituaries also noted his positions on foreign policy, including vocal support for Israel.
As the investigation continues, UVU has signalled that classes and events will be adjusted while police activity remains on site. Memorials have been held in Utah and at Turning Point USA’s headquarters in Arizona. Officials said updates would be released as soon as practicable, and reiterated that false leads can hinder the effort to identify and arrest the perpetrator.
