Charlie Kirk, an influential right-wing activist and close ally of former President Donald Trump, was fatally shot during a speaking engagement at Utah Valley University on September 10, 2025. The tragic event unfolded as Kirk was addressing a crowd of approximately 3,000 students, part of his American Comeback tour.
The incident occurred around 12:20 PM when a question regarding mass shootings was posed to Kirk. Moments later, a gunshot rang out, believed to have emanated from the roof of the nearby Losee Center. Witnesses reported chaos, with Kirk appearing to slump in his chair, visibly injured.
Authorities have not yet apprehended a suspect, but they described the alleged shooter as a college-aged individual who blended in with the students. The FBI has released images of a person of interest captured on video fleeing the scene. Investigators have also recovered a high-powered rifle believed to be the weapon used in the shooting.
Kirk's unexpected death has elicited a wide range of reactions from both supporters and critics, highlighting deeper divisions in U.S. politics. While his passing has been met with grief and outrage, it has also raised concerns about the increasing prevalence of political violence in the country.