OREM, Utah — Conservative commentator and Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk was shot and killed Wednesday while speaking to thousands of students at Utah Valley University, in what state and federal officials are calling a targeted political assassination.
The gunfire erupted just after noon as Kirk stood at a podium answering a question about gun violence. Witnesses reported a single crack that echoed through the campus, followed by chaos as students ducked for cover and rushed to escape. Kirk was struck in the neck and later pronounced dead at a local hospital.
Suspect still at large
Authorities believe the fatal shot came from the roof of the Losee Center, a campus building roughly 200 yards from where Kirk was speaking. Surveillance and bystander video shows a figure in dark clothing sprinting across the rooftop moments after the shooting.
Police initially detained and questioned one person but later released him. Investigators now say no suspects are in custody, and the shooter remains at large. The FBI has joined Utah state police and local agencies in leading the manhunt.
Campuses closed, flags lowered
Utah Valley University has suspended classes and closed all campuses through the weekend while investigators secure the area. “This was a dark day for Utah and for the country,” Governor Spencer Cox said, adding that targeting people for their ideas “threatens the very foundation of our democracy.”
President Donald Trump ordered U.S. flags flown at half-staff through Sunday evening to honor Kirk, calling the commentator “a fighter for American values” in a White House proclamation. Vigils have already begun on college campuses across the country and at Turning Point USA headquarters in Phoenix.
Political violence in focus
Kirk’s killing comes during a year already scarred by political violence, including the assassination attempt on Trump in July, the murders of Minnesota lawmakers in June, and a string of attacks on government officials and institutions. Analysts warn the nation is seeing a troubling escalation in ideologically driven attacks.
What’s next
For now, investigators are combing through security footage, witness accounts, and ballistic evidence as they work to identify the shooter. Officials are urging the public to remain alert and report any information that could help track down the suspect.
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