Conservative activist Charlie Kirk was fatally shot during an event at Utah Valley University on Wednesday, according to multiple reports. The incident occurred around midday while Kirk was speaking as part of his “American Comeback Tour,” held outdoors on the campus. A single gunshot struck him in the neck, and he was quickly taken to a hospital but later died.
Initial reports suggested a suspect had been taken into custody soon after the shooting. However, the university later clarified that the person detained was not the shooter and that no suspect remained in custody. The shooter is still at large, and investigators are actively pursuing leads.
Multiple eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene. Video footage and eyewitness accounts show Kirk being struck mid-sentence, blood visible on his neck, followed by panic as people fled the area. The shot was believed to have come from a nearby building approximately 200 yards away possibly from the rooftop of the Losee Center.
In response to the shooting, the university evacuated the campus, canceled classes, and activated a law enforcement response including FBI and ATF agents. Flags were ordered to be flown at half-staff in Kirk’s honor by presidential directive. Political leaders across the spectrum condemned the violence and called for unity and prayer. President Trump described Kirk as “great and even legendary,” while others emphasized the need to end political violence.
