Turning Point USA co-founder Charlie Kirk died after being shot at a Utah Valley University event on Wednesday, the organization confirmed.
The big picture: Kirk was one of the most popular and influential members of the sprawling right-wing media ecosystem.
- Through his work with Turning Point USA, Kirk was largely credited with mobilizing Gen Z voters in support of Trump in 2024.
- "He was loved and admired by ALL, especially me, and now, he is no longer with us," Trump said on Truth Social.
- "May he be received into the merciful arms of our loving Savior, who suffered and died for Charlie," a Turning Point USA statement said. "We ask that everyone keep his family and loved ones in your prayers."
Catch up quick: A single shot was heard at the Orem, Utah, campus as Kirk began speaking at his rally, university spokesperson Scott Trotter said. The police investigation is ongoing.
- "The FBI is on scene and in full support of local authorities to ensure everyone's safety," FBI Director Kash Patel said on X.
Context: Kirk's planned stops at UVU and Utah State University this month as part of his "American Comeback Tour" ignited criticism from some students prior to his arrival.
- A petition to stop his talk at Utah State had gathered nearly 7,000 signatures as of Wednesday.
- The UVU event was the first of 15 on the fall tour.
State of play: Utah Gov. Spencer Cox (R) said he was being briefed by law enforcement following the shooting.
- "Those responsible will be held fully accountable. Violence has no place in our public life," he wrote on X.
- California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D), who hosted Kirk on his podcast in March, said the attack was "vile and reprehensible" and condemned political violence.
- Trump ordered U.S. flags to be lowered to half staff until Sunday evening.
Between the lines: The university initially said a suspect was in custody but later walked back the statement.
- "There is still a suspect at large," the City of Orem said in a statement.
- UVU is leading the investigation with support from Orem Police and other local, federal and state agencies, the city said.
Other prominent media figures quickly condemned the shooting and said they were praying for Kirk.
- "What I can say is that the movement that Charlie Kirk built, the movement that Turning Point USA built for 10 years, it will never stop, because the movement is built on truth, because the movement is built on what's good," Jack Posobiec, another influential podcaster and friend of Kirk, said on his show following the news of the shooting.
Zoom in: UVU closed its campus and canceled classes until further notice. People were instructed to leave the campus immediately.
Go deeper:
- Charlie Kirk talks Epstein, urges Trump administration to act
- Turning Point festival mobilizes Trump youth, podcast army
Editor's note: This story has been updated with details throughout.
