Charlie Kirk Shot During Utah Valley University Event; Suspect in Custody

Image of Charlie Kirk in Utah right before the shot was fired.

T.L. Sullivan | The Weekly Ledger News | Breaking News

OREM, Utah — Conservative activist Charlie Kirk, founder and CEO of Turning Point USA, was shot Wednesday during an event at Utah Valley University, law enforcement officials confirmed.

Preliminary reports indicate Kirk sustained a gunshot wound to the neck, believed to have been caused by a high-powered rifle. His condition has not yet been officially released.

In this July 15, 2024, file photo, CEO of Turning Point USA Charlie Kirk speaks on stage on the first day of the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, Wis.

Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images, FILE

Campus officials issued an emergency alert reporting that a single shot was fired toward a visiting speaker. Authorities quickly secured the scene, and a suspect is now in custody.

Federal and state agencies, including the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, are assisting with the investigation. Attorney General Pam Bondi confirmed their presence on campus.

Political leaders across the nation swiftly responded to the attack.

President Donald Trump posted on social media, “We must all pray for Charlie Kirk, who has been shot. A great guy from top to bottom. GOD BLESS HIM!”

In this May 28, 2025, file photo, Turning Point USA co-founder Charlie Kirk stands in the back of the room as President Donald Trump speaks during a swearing-in ceremony for interim U.S. Attorney for Washington, D.C. Jeanine Pirro in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, D.C.

Andrew Harnik/Getty Images, FILE

Vice President JD Vance called Kirk “a genuinely good guy and a young father,” urging Americans to keep him in their prayers.

Utah Sen. Mike Lee also shared his concern, writing, “Please join me in praying for Charlie Kirk and the students gathered there.”

Utah Gov. Spencer Cox condemned the act of violence, pledging accountability. “Violence has no place in our public life. Americans of every political persuasion must unite in condemning this act,” Cox stated.

The incident occurred during the opening stop of Turning Point USA’s American Comeback Tour, which is scheduled to visit college campuses nationwide.

As details continue to emerge, the focus remains on Kirk’s recovery and the safety of students and community members present during the event.

This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.