Wed Sep 10 23:42:30 UTC 2025: **News Article:**

**Conservative Activist Charlie Kirk Shot Dead at Utah College Event**

OREM, Utah – Charlie Kirk, 31, the conservative activist and founder of Turning Point USA, was shot and killed Wednesday at a Utah Valley University event, sparking outrage and renewing concerns about escalating political violence in the U.S.

Former President Donald Trump announced Kirk’s death on Truth Social, lauding him as “Great” and “Legendary,” praising his understanding and connection to American youth.

Police have taken a person into custody, but the Orem Mayor said it was not the shooter.

Videos circulating on social media show Kirk speaking at the “American Comeback” event when a single gunshot rings out. Kirk is seen reacting, blood gushing from his neck, before the crowd erupts in panic. The Associated Press confirmed the authenticity of the videos and their location on the university campus.

Moments before the shooting, Kirk was engaged in a Q&A with an audience member about mass shootings and gun violence.

Turning Point USA confirmed the shooting and requested prayers for Kirk.

The event was met with controversy, with a petition to bar Kirk from campus garnering nearly 1,000 signatures. The university defended its decision to host the event, citing First Amendment rights.

The shooting is the latest in a series of politically motivated attacks across the country, including the recent assassination of a Minnesota lawmaker, a firebombing during a Colorado parade, and an arson at the Pennsylvania governor’s residence. Trump, who himself survived a shooting during a rally last year, expressed his grief and called for prayers for Kirk.

Jason Chaffetz, former Utah congressman, described the scene as chaotic and expressed concern over the light police presence at the event.

Turning Point USA, founded by Kirk in 2012, rapidly gained prominence within conservative circles, particularly after backing Donald Trump in 2016. Kirk became a prominent figure on cable news, advocating for conservative causes and maintaining a close relationship with the Trump family.

Read More