Charlie Kirk, a prominent right-wing activist and ally of former President Donald Trump, was shot during an event at Utah Valley University on September 10, 2025. Kirk, aged 31, was participating in his “American Comeback” tour and addressing a crowd of approximately 3,000 in an outdoor area known as the quad.
The incident occurred around 12:20 PM when Kirk was responding to a question about transgender Americans and mass shootings. Shortly after his reply, a shot was fired, believed to have originated from the roof of the Losee Center, a building overlooking the event space. Kirk was struck in the neck and collapsed, prompting chaos as attendees fled and emergency responses were initiated.
Authorities have yet to apprehend a suspect. The FBI has released images of a person of interest and reported the discovery of a bolt-action rifle in a nearby wooded area. This rifle, identified as a Mauser .30-06, was found wrapped in a towel alongside evidence such as footwear impressions and a palm print.
Witness accounts detail the moments leading up to and following the shooting. Videos released to the public suggest a figure was observed on the roof of the Losee Center before fleeing the scene. Investigators have indicated that the suspect appeared to be of college age and blended in with students.
Kirk was a key figure in American conservative politics, having co-founded Turning Point USA at a young age. He gained prominence through his debates on campus, often addressing contentious topics and attracting a following. Following his death, reactions have spanned the political spectrum, with prominent figures expressing shock and calling for reflection on political violence in the U.S. Reports indicate that politically motivated attacks have escalated, raising concerns about safety for public figures.
This situation highlights ongoing discussions about political violence and its implications within the current landscape of American politics.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cy04p4x21e5o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss