BREAKING: Charlie Kirk Shot at Utah Valley University
Viewer discretion advised. A gunshot rang out during an outdoor speaking event where conservative commentator Charlie Kirk was speaking. Video circulating online appears to show Kirk struck; witnesses and authorities report panic as students fled. A suspect has been detained and authorities are investigating. Medical condition reports for Kirk were mixed as of initial updates.
What happened
Charlie Kirk — founder and CEO of Turning Point USA and speaker on the "American Comeback" tour — was speaking under a white tent in the Sorensen Center courtyard when a single gunshot rang out. Video clips circulating online show Kirk clutching his neck/jaw area and appearing to collapse into a chair as attendees scrambled away in panic.
Location detail
The event took place outdoors in the Sorensen Center courtyard at Utah Valley University (UVU) in Orem, Utah. Witness reports suggest the shot was fired from the area of the Losee Center building, several hundred feet away from the stage area.
Emergency response
- Immediate: Students and attendees fled the area; campus emergency announcements and evacuations followed.
- Law enforcement: Local police responded and a suspect was detained; early reports varied about how quickly the apprehension occurred.
- Federal involvement: The FBI said agents were responding to assist with the investigation.
Victim status
Initial media reports indicated Kirk was transported to a hospital and that there was visible bleeding consistent with a neck wound in some videos. At the time of first reports, a clear and confirmed medical update had not been released; information varied across sources.
National reaction
Political figures and commentators across the country reacted, expressing shock and calling for prayers and support. Several national leaders publicly condemned the violence while urging calm as authorities investigate.
Reported timeline (concise)
- ~12:10 p.m.: Event underway under a white tent at UVU's Sorensen Center courtyard.
- Moments later: A gunshot; video shows Kirk struck and the audience fleeing.
- Shortly after: Campus evacuated; law enforcement on scene; suspect reportedly detained.
Sources / Further reading
Initial reporting and updates were provided by multiple news organizations. For more detail and the evolving investigation, see these reports:
- Reuters — Conservative commentator Charlie Kirk shot at Utah Valley University event
- The Guardian — Trump ally Charlie Kirk shot during event at Utah Valley University
- AP News — Conservative activist Charlie Kirk shot at Utah college event
- People — Charlie Kirk shot during college appearance
Note: This is an early report based on initial media coverage and circulating video. Authorities are investigating and details may change as official statements are released.