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Conservative activist and Turning Point USA co-founder Charlie Kirk was shot on Wednesday while addressing students at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah. Authorities confirmed that a suspect is in custody, and Kirk was rushed to a local hospital with a gunshot wound to the neck. His condition remains critical, according to officials familiar with the matter.
The incident occurred shortly after noon as Kirk participated in his organization's "American Comeback Tour" under a white outdoor tent. Videos circulating on social media captured the moment a single shot rang out, with Kirk reaching toward his neck as bystanders screamed and ran for safety. "He was shot in the neck. He's at the hospital," said Marina Minas, Turning Point USA's chief marketing officer.
Utah Valley University quickly locked down its campus, cancelling classes and urging students to shelter in place until police escorted them to safety. "A single shot was fired on campus toward a visiting speaker. Police are investigating now," the university said in an alert. Ellen Treanor, the school's associate vice president for communications, stated, "At about 12:20 shots were fired from a building about 200 yards from the speaker. To the best of our knowledge, the individual was hit and was taken away immediately by his security personnel."
The FBI confirmed its involvement in the investigation. Director Kash Patel posted on X: "Our thoughts are with Charlie, his loved ones, and everyone affected. Agents will be on the scene quickly and the FBI stands in full support of the ongoing response and investigation."
Political leaders across the spectrum condemned the attack. Utah Governor Spencer Cox said, "Those responsible will be held fully accountable. Violence has no place in our public life." Former Vice President Kamala Harris echoed the sentiment, writing, "Political violence has no place in America. I condemn this act, and we all must work together to ensure this does not lead to more violence." House Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi also called the shooting "reprehensible."
President Donald Trump offered support on Truth Social, saying, "We must all pray for Charlie Kirk, who has been shot. A great guy from top to bottom. GOD BLESS HIM!"
Kirk, 30, founded Turning Point USA in 2012 to promote conservative values on campuses nationwide. Known for his confrontational debate style, he has built a large following and remains one of the most visible pro-Trump activists in the country. His American Comeback Tour was scheduled to continue at other universities later this month.