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The conservative commentator was speaking at his 'American Comeback Tour' when shots rang out, sparking chaos.
Conservative political activist Charlie Kirk was shot during a campus event at Utah Valley University (UVU) on Wednesday, Sept. 10. The 31-year-old was hosting the first stop of his American Comeback Tour when gunfire erupted, leaving students and attendees scrambling for safety.
Witnesses say Kirk was standing under a white pop-up tent at his signature "Prove Me Wrong" table when a single shot rang out. Video circulating on social media appeared to show him collapsing after being struck in the neck. Panic immediately followed, with people yelling, "Run, run, run!" as they fled the scene.
UVU police confirmed that a suspect is in custody, though their identity has not yet been released. An alert sent to students stated, "A single shot was fired on campus toward a visiting speaker. Police are investigating now."
Sophie Anderson, who was near the stage, described the chaos: "The second it happened, I knew it was a gunshot. He just fell over, and there was so much blood. Students were crying and running everywhere. It was terrifying."
Kirk was rushed to a nearby hospital. Turning Point USA, the nonprofit organization he founded in 2012, released a brief statement:
"We can confirm that Charlie Kirk has been shot. He is in the hospital, and we are praying for him at this time."
Prominent political figures quickly reacted. Former President Donald Trump wrote on Truth Social, "We must all pray for Charlie Kirk, who has been shot. A great guy from top to bottom. GOD BLESS HIM!"
Utah Senator Mike Lee and Vice President J.D. Vance also urged prayers, with Vance calling Kirk "a genuinely good guy and a young father."
Kirk, known for his outspoken conservative views, has built a strong following among young conservatives through his organization and campus tours. His events have often stirred controversy, with petitions at some universities demanding he be barred from speaking.
Wednesday's rally was set to mark a new chapter in his political activism. Just minutes before the shooting, Kirk posted on X: "WE. ARE. SO. BACK. Utah Valley University is FIRED UP and READY for the first stop back on the American Comeback Tour."
Authorities have labeled this an ongoing investigation, with federal agents assisting local police.
Kirk is married and has two children.
