- Charlie Kirk, Turning Point USA co-founder, was shot during a campus event.
- The gunman fled on a motorbike; a suspect is now in custody.
- Trump paid tribute, calling Kirk a patriot whose work will continue.
- FBI assisting local authorities in the investigation.
Charlie Kirk, a co-founder of the conservative youth group Turning Point USA, was speaking at an outdoor event on Utah Valley University’s Orem campus when a single gunshot shattered the session. Students panicked and scrambled for cover.
Witnesses described the attacker as hooded and armed, firing once before fleeing on a motorbike. Bystander videos show Kirk on stage during a Q&A when the shot rang out. Campus police confirmed he was hit and immediately taken by security. Hours later, former President Donald Trump announced that Kirk had died from his injuries.
“Charlie was a true patriot and a fighter who loved this country. His voice will never be silenced,” Trump posted on Truth Social. “We will honour him by carrying forward the movement he helped build.”
The FBI said it is assisting local authorities with the investigation. Utah Valley University confirmed a suspect is in custody but provided no further details.
Kirk founded Turning Point USA in 2012, growing it into a major conservative force on U.S. campuses. Known for his outspoken support of Donald Trump, Kirk also hosted The Charlie Kirk Show, a widely followed podcast and radio programme.
His death leaves a significant mark on American conservative youth politics and campus activism.
