Photo Credit: Getty Images
Turning Point USA has released a statement following the death of its co-founder and CEO, Charlie Kirk, confirming that he was shot during a Turning Point USA event at Utah Valley University on September 10, 2025. The statement describes the shooting as a targeted murder and asks for respect for the family and for them to be held in people’s thoughts and prayers.
In its message the organization said: “It is with a heavy heart that we confirm that Charles James Kirk has been murdered by a gunshot that took place during Turning Point USA’s ‘The American Comeback Tour’ campus event at Utah Valley University on September 10, 2025.” The statement also added: “May he be received into the merciful arms of our loving Savior, who suffered and died for Charlie. We ask that everyone keep his family and loved ones in your prayers. We ask that you please respect their privacy and dignity at this time.”
The statement refers to Kirk as someone deeply committed to conservative activism, public speaking, and youth engagement. Turning Point USA urges that, amid grief, people respect the family’s privacy. The message also emphasizes that Kirk’s values around free speech, faith, and public debate were central to his life.
His death has prompted responses from political figures across the spectrum. There has been wide condemnation of political violence and calls for calm and unity. In addition, President Donald Trump announced plans to award Kirk posthumously the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Authorities are still investigating the incident, and no suspect has been publicly identified as of this writing.
The tone of Turning Point USA’s statement is one of mourning and faith, focused more on remembering Kirk’s life, values and the impact he had, than on assigning blame. It seeks to unify those who respected him around his legacy and requests that in the aftermath people show compassion and restraint.
