Charlie Kirk, the conservative activist and founder of Turning Point USA, has died after being shot during a campus event at Utah Valley University (UVU) in Orem on Wednesday. He was 31.
Kirk was rushed to a hospital in critical condition following the shooting but later succumbed to his injuries, according to law enforcement officials.
US President Donald Trump confirmed Kirk’s death in a post on Truth Social.
“The Great, and even Legendary, Charlie Kirk, is dead. No one understood or had the heart of the youth in the United States of America better than Charlie. He was loved and admired by ALL, especially me, and now, he is no longer with us. Melania and my sympathies go out to his beautiful wife Erika, and family. Charlie, we love you!”
The incident unfolded at approximately 12:20 p.m. during a Turning Point USA stop at UVU, part of the “American Comeback Tour.” Video from the event appeared to show Kirk being shot while speaking under a white tent. Witnesses reported panic as attendees screamed and rushed to escape.
UVU spokesperson Ellen Treanor said the suspect initially believed to be in custody had since been released. As of Wednesday evening, police confirmed the shooter was still at large. Campus police, along with Orem officers, are continuing their investigation.
The university ordered an immediate lockdown and later began evacuating students building by building, with police escorts guiding people off campus. Roads leading to UVU were shut down as more than 60 emergency vehicles from surrounding agencies responded.
Kirk, who co-founded Turning Point USA in 2012, built it into one of the most influential conservative youth organizations in the United States. A frequent media commentator, podcast host, and political strategist, he was known for mobilizing young conservatives on college campuses nationwide. He is survived by his wife, Erika, and their two children.
The shooting has prompted widespread shock and condemnation, with national leaders, political allies, and student groups expressing grief and outrage. A manhunt for the suspect remains underway.