Charlie Kirk Shot Dead at Utah University Event

American conservative activist and founder of Turning Point USA, Charlie Kirk, has died after being shot during a campus event in Utah. He was 31.

The shooting happened on Tuesday, September 10, during the group’s American Comeback Tour at Utah Valley University, Orem. Witnesses say Kirk was struck in the neck while engaging students in a Q&A session. Hundreds of attendees, including protesters, were present when chaos broke out.

Footage of the incident, which has been circulating online, appears to show the exact moment Kirk was shot. Turning Point USA later confirmed his death in a statement, describing it as a “murder” and asking the public to respect the privacy of his family.

The US President Donald Trump also announced the news on Truth Social, describing Kirk as “a great guy from top to bottom” while calling for prayers in his honor.

Initial reports from the university suggested the gunman had been arrested after allegedly firing from a nearby building. However, officials later clarified that the suspect had been questioned and released, fueling confusion around the case.

Charlie Kirk rose to prominence at just 18 when he co-founded Turning Point USA, a conservative organization focused on high school and college campuses. He gained national attention for fiery debates with liberal students and his strong support for Donald Trump.

Kirk was also a vocal figure after the 2020 US elections, promoting claims of voter fraud and appearing before a House Committee investigating the January 6 riots.

Away from politics, Kirk married Erika Frantzve in 2021. They have two children together — a daughter born in 2022 and a son in 2024.

His death has left a significant mark on America’s conservative movement, with tributes pouring in from allies and supporters across the country.